Dion Mikhail Fetalvero

Nesthy Petecio made history anew, becoming the fourth Filipino Olympic multi-medalist after copping a bronze medal in the women’s boxing 57kg division at the Paris Olympic Games, August 8.

Photo Courtesy of  Mohd Rasfan, AFP.

The Filipina boxer will join the ranks of Teófilo Yldefonso, Hidilyn Diaz, and Carlos Yulo, as all-time sporting greats who also bagged double Olympic medals in the history of the quadrennial meet. The bronze comes after a heartbreaking defeat in the semifinals bout against Polish boxer Julia Szeremeta, where the Filipina flag bearer succumbed to a 4-1 split decision upset. Petecio, who was one of the favorites to advance in the gold medal bout against Chinese Taipei’s Lin Yu-ting, squandered a first round advantage, failing to replicate her success in Tokyo three years ago where the Filipina won silver. “I thought it was going my way this time. I really believed that I would get it. But the win was not given to us,” the former world champion said in an interview with Cignal. The Davao-native used her expertise and composure to deliver an enthusiastic opener, sweeping the judges’ scorecard via clear connections. However, the Philippine phenom could not capitalize on the second as the Polish shifted gears, adapting a more aggressive playing style. Known for her footwork and offense, the Tokyo silver medalist continued to march off with a slurry of attacks against the younger foe but ultimately lost steam, failing to counter a bouncy Szeremeta, who came in on all-fours to force a deciding ender. By the closing bid, the 32-year-old Petecio put up a valiant effort and found her footing anew but it was not enough as the busier Szeremeta dominated the round to set the stage for an impressive upset. While the Filipina lost her bid to Olympic gold, Petecio was still graceful in defeat. “I’m still thankful because I fought well,” the historic boxer said. Petecio officially ends Philippine boxing’s Olympic campaign as the nation’s first boxing multi-medalist – closing the Paris medal table with two bronzes thanks to a stunning Olympic debut by compatriot Aira Villegas, who also fell short in her semifinal bid.