Nikhat Zareen didn’t just reclaim gold at the World Boxing Cup in Greater Noida — she reclaimed a part of herself. After more than 20 months without a major international title, the two-time world champion lit up the arena in trademark fashion, spearheading an Indian women’s contingent that dominated the tournament. Of India’s 20 medals, the women accounted for ten — seven of them gold.

One champion celebrating another

Even at her own moment of triumph, Nikhat lit up when speaking about India’s new women’s cricket world champions.

“I was watching from Patiala… and I was so happy for my friends — Jemimah, Smriti, Harman, Sneha. Their journey is something to remember,” she told NDTV. 

Having experienced the scrutiny, pressure and adulation that come with success, she understands what that victory will mean to them.

“Once you become a world champion, people start watching you. Expectations rise. And people start loving you.”

‘The future is bright for Indian women athletes’

Asked about the surge in women’s sport in India, she didn’t hesitate.

“Definitely. The future is bright for Indian women athletes. The kind of love we’re getting now… if we had got it earlier, maybe the story would have been different. But I’m glad we’re finally getting what we deserve.”