India star pugilist was seen heartbroken after she lost the pre-quarters match in round of 16 of the women’s 50kg boxing event of the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. Nikhat was lost against China's Wu Yu by 0-5 in the round of 16 on August 1 (Thursday). She even apologised for not winning a medal for the nation.
Teary-eyed Nikhat also said that she made a lot of sacrifices to reach in Olympics.
"Sorry guys, I could not win a medal for the country. I have made a lot of sacrifices to reach here. I had prepared myself well mentally and physically for this Olympics," she said referring to the time spent away from her family and the hard training sessions she went through.
"I will come back strong," she said at least five times, probably trying to convince herself and everyone else around her that the Olympic road does not end here for her. Can I have some water please," she said, gesturing towards her coach, had a sip from the half-filled bottle and gathered her thoughts.
Nikhat revealed that she hadn't ate anything for last two days
The Indian star boxer also revealed that she has not eaten anything for last two days to maintain the weight category while taking a sip from her bottle.
"I had not eaten in the last two days, I had to maintain weight. I did not even have water, and only after weigh-in I had some water but I had no time to recover, I was first in the ring today," said Nikhat, who moved down from her preferred 52kg weight division as it didn't feature in the Paris Olympics.
"I ran continuously for one hour many times in the last two days," implying that perhaps her body lacked the strength to contend with the formidable Chinese opponent throughout all three rounds.
"If I had won today, the effort would have been appreciated but it will now look like an excuse. I gave my best," she said, hoping her struggle be acknowledged and appreciated.
The two-time World Champion says she plans to go on a solo trip and spend some quality time with her family as she takes her first step towards recovery from the heartbreaking loss.
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