Fatima Zahra punches Pakistan into medal contention at Islamic Solidarity Games

Pakistan’s Fatima Zahra secured the nation’s first medal at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games after a commanding performance in the women’s 60kg boxing quarterfinal on Thursday night in Riyadh. The 21-year-old’s victory has made headlines as Fatima Zahra Islamic Solidarity Games performance continues to inspire Pakistan’s contingent.

The 21-year-old showcased her dominance and skill, cruising to a 5-0 unanimous victory over Hamda Melissa of Algeria, which booked her a spot in the semifinals and guaranteed Pakistan a podium finish.

Zahra completely controlled the bout from start to finish, outclassing her opponent in all three rounds. She earned perfect 10-point scores from all five judges in every round except one, who scored slightly lower in the second. Her disciplined technique and relentless energy left no room for doubt about her superiority in the ring.

Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s Maria Rind suffered a tough 5-0 loss to Rabia Topuz of Turkiye, while Laura Djida Akram was outboxed by her Uzbek rival in a similar fashion. Despite their exits, Zahra’s victory lifted the team’s spirits and provided Pakistan with its first confirmed medal of the Games.

On the men’s side, Qudrat Ullah is set to begin his campaign on Saturday in the 55kg category, where he will face Yousif Hassa Othman of Palestine in what promises to be a high-intensity contest.

Pakistan has sent a 53-member delegation to the Games, which are being hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 7 to 21.

Zahra’s triumph not only highlights her personal talent but also marks a significant achievement for Pakistan’s boxing contingent, as the young fighter aims to go all the way and turn her guaranteed medal into gold. The Fatima Zahra Islamic Solidarity Games performance is now a symbol of Pakistan’s growing presence in women’s boxing on the international stage.