Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain has secured India's first medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow without throwing a single punch. The 2020 Olympic bronze medalist advanced to the semifinals of the women's 75kg category after her opponent, New Zealand's Ariane Nicholson, withdrew due to a medical issue.
According to the Commonwealth Games Federation, walkovers are permitted when a boxer is unable to compete due to injury or illness. Borgohain's semifinal berth guarantees her at least a bronze medal, as losing semifinalists in boxing both receive bronze.
Borgohain, who also won bronze at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, is now set to fight for a place in the final. The 28-year-old from Assam has been a consistent performer for India, having also won a bronze at the 2023 World Championships.
The Indian boxing contingent has high hopes for Borgohain, who is one of the country's most experienced boxers. Her walkover victory highlights the unpredictable nature of tournament boxing, where injuries can alter medal prospects.
