The boxer ended her run at the Paris Olympics at the semifinal.
Filipino boxer Nesthy Petecio is now a two-time Olympic medalist after winning the bronze medal in the women’s 57kg at the Paris Olympics.
Petecio lost to Poland’s Julia Szeremeta in the semifinal, in a split decision, 4-1. It was a close fight, with Petecio taking control of the first round.
READ ALSO: A Commendable Debut: Aira Villegas Claims The Philippines’ Third Medal At Paris Olympics
Szeremeta found her footing in the second and third rounds, enough to give her the win. There was just a one point difference in each judge’s score, proving how closely matched the two boxers were.
Petecio earned the Philippines’ second bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, following fellow boxer Aira Villegas. This is the country’s fourth medal overall, after Carlos Yulo’s two golds in artistic gymnastics.
Still Making History
Even though she didn’t secure a gold medal this time, Petecio has joined an elite group of Filipino athletes who have won multiple Olympic medals.
The list includes Yulo, weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, and swimmer Teófilo Yldefonso. Petecio won her first medal when she secured silver at the Tokyo Olympics.
In an interview with One Sports, the Filipino boxer explains that she believes she landed more clear punches in the third round than her opponent. She also didn’t understand why the referee kept cautioning her, but still respects all the decisions made.
“Sobrang proud po ako na hanggang ngayon lumalaban ako para sa bayan, sa pamilya, sa pangarap, and sa pangarap ko na ginto,” said Petecio.
(“I’m so proud that until now, I’m still fighting for my country, my family, my dreams, and my dream of getting gold.”)
The boxer remains positive, believing in her capability and that she was able to show her best. She will surely return home as a hero, with the whole country taking pride in her achievements.
Banner image via Instagram @neshpetecio.
