Pakistan’s Fatima Zahra Says Mary Kom Inspired Her Historic Commonwealth Games Medal
Sports Corresponden: Imran Sohail
Pakistan’s Fatima Zahra has made history by becoming the country’s first female boxer to win a medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The 22-year-old earned a bronze medal in the women’s 60kg category at Glasgow, marking a significant milestone for Pakistan’s growing women’s boxing programme.
After her achievement, Fatima shared that legendary Indian boxer Mary Kom has been a major source of inspiration throughout her journey.
According to Fatima, watching the biographical film based on Mary Kom’s life motivated her to stay focused on her training. She said the movie encouraged her to work hard and dream of reaching similar heights in the sport. Fatima also expressed her hope of meeting her boxing idol someday.
Mary Kom is widely regarded as one of the greatest female boxers in history. Her career includes multiple world championship titles, an Olympic bronze medal and a Commonwealth Games gold medal, making her an inspiration for athletes across the region.
Fatima also revealed that pursuing boxing was not easy in the beginning. She said her family initially opposed her decision to enter the sport and did not want her to attend training sessions. However, she remained determined and continued working towards her goal. Over time, her family’s attitude changed, and they are now among her biggest supporters during competitions.
The Pakistani boxer hopes her success will encourage more young girls to participate in sports despite social challenges. She believes that dedication and hard work can help women achieve their goals and break traditional barriers.
Fatima secured her bronze medal after defeating New Zealand’s Jordan Wilson by a unanimous 5-0 decision in the quarter-finals. She later lost in the semi-finals, but under Commonwealth Games boxing rules, both defeated semi-finalists receive bronze medals.
Had she advanced to the final, Fatima would have faced India’s Priya Ghanghas in the gold medal bout.
Fatima Zahra’s achievement is being celebrated as a landmark moment for women’s boxing in Pakistan and is expected to inspire the next generation of female athletes.
