I perform better when I have tough draw: Nikhat Zareen ready for challenging bouts in Olympics

NEW DELHI: Two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen remains unfazed by the prospect of encountering formidable adversaries in the initial rounds of her Olympic debut. The 27-year-old boxer firmly believes that her performance shines brightest when confronted with a challenging draw.
Zareen secured her spot in the upcoming Paris Olympics, competing in the 50 kg category, through her qualification during the Asian Games held in October of the previous year.
"In the Olympics, there is no seeding, no ranking. So, it's all about your luck there. I don't know whom I'll be facing in the first round or in the second round," Zareen said in an interaction facilitated by SAI in collaboration with IOA and BFI.
Zareen is accustomed to overcoming challenges en route to tournament victories. Last year, she clinched her second World Championships title in New Delhi, despite being unseeded after transitioning from the 52kg to the 50kg weight class.
"Seeding doesn't matter that much because there are a lot of boxers who even after seeding, don't win a medal. But I have also noticed that whenever I have a tough draw, I perform well at that time," she said.
Zareen has participated in a few competitions after securing her spot in the Olympics. Earlier this year, she clinched the silver medal at the esteemed Strandja Memorial tournament. Subsequently, in May, she emerged victorious at the Elorda Cup.
Although content with her training and preparations, Zareen admits to experiencing nerves, which she considers a positive sign.
"As the days are going by I'm getting nervous. It is my thing because when I'm nervous, my body works well and I'm more focused. And also, this is my first Olympics," she said.
Nikhat's journey at the Asian Games proved to be an enlightening experience, despite the outcome not being entirely in her favor. The semifinal bout against Thailand's Chuthamat Raksat was closely contested, but Zareen's sluggish start ultimately cost her a spot in the final, and she had to settle for a bronze medal.
"In the Asian Games, I lost to the Thai opponent. I was not aggressive in the first round. So, I lost by split decision. I have learnt from that."
Zareen has shifted her attention to maintaining her mental well-being and avoiding any physical setbacks
Asked how her life has changed in the past couple of years, Zareen said "I never thought that a girl who used to be known as a challenger (to MC Mary Kom) has become the face of Indian boxing."
"It's a big thing for me that I am getting to see this. I feel blessed and grateful that God has made me so capable that my dream of becoming a world champion has come true.
"But the journey is not yet over. My ultimate dream is to win an Olympic medal."
(With PTI inputs)