With the Commonwealth Games 2026 set to begin in Glasgow, Scotland, in less than a week, Sakshi Chaudh Indian boxerary is preparing to represent the country in the women’s 51kg boxing category. One of India’s rising stars in the sport, Sakshi enters the competition after a remarkable run of performances that have established her among the country’s leading boxers.

Sakshi’s journey to the Commonwealth Games has been marked by determination, discipline and perseverance. In the lead-up to the event, she successfully reduced nearly three kilograms in just three weeks to meet the weight requirement while maintaining peak physical condition. Her impressive performances during the selection process included victories over accomplished boxers such as world champion Nikhat Zareen and national-level contender Minakshi Hooda, underlining her credentials as one of India’s strongest medal hopes.

According to the Sports Authority of India (SAI), Sakshi has consistently demonstrated exceptional fighting ability, tactical awareness and mental resilience, qualities that have helped her rise rapidly through the ranks of Indian boxing.

The 22-year-old has already created history on the international stage. Earlier this year, she became the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the World Boxing Cup in Astana, Kazakhstan, a landmark achievement that further enhanced her reputation as one of the country’s brightest boxing prospects.

Sakshi’s success is even more inspiring considering her humble background. Hailing from a farming family, she has overcome financial and personal challenges to reach the international stage. Alongside her boxing career, she also serves in the Indian Army, balancing the responsibilities of military service with the demanding schedule of elite-level sport.

Currently training intensively ahead of the Games, Sakshi has been focusing on refining her technique, improving her fitness and strengthening her mental preparation. Her training programme includes rigorous sparring sessions, strength and conditioning exercises, recovery routines and a carefully planned diet to ensure she is in peak condition when the competition begins.

Reflecting on her selection for the Commonwealth Games, Sakshi described it as the fulfilment of a long-cherished dream. “Participating in the Commonwealth Games has always been my dream, and I have been working towards it for a long time. Finally representing India in the 51kg boxing category feels surreal,” she said. She also spoke about the challenges she faced on the road to Glasgow, including recovering from an injury and managing the demanding process of weight reduction.

“Even when I got injured, I remained determined and never gave up. I recovered, continued training and stayed focused on my goal. Reducing weight was another challenge, but I remembered what my father always taught me—to never give up and always push yourself to your full potential. Right now, my complete focus is on training, getting proper rest, maintaining the right diet and staying mentally strong. My only aim is to give my best and win a gold medal for India,” she added.

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Sakshi’s achievements extend well beyond the senior circuit. She is a two-time gold medallist at the AIBA World Youth Women’s Boxing Championships, having won titles in 2017 and 2018. She also captured gold at the World Junior Women’s Championships in 2015 and earned a medal at the Asian Boxing Championships in 2021, reflecting her consistency across different age groups and international competitions.

Having started boxing at the age of 12, Sakshi has steadily progressed through the ranks with years of dedicated training and hard work. Coaches and officials believe her aggressive yet disciplined style, combined with her strong defensive skills and determination, make her a serious contender for a podium finish in Glasgow.

The Commonwealth Games will also serve as an important stepping stone towards other major international events, including the 2026 Asian Games. Strong performances in these competitions are expected to strengthen Sakshi’s position among India’s leading boxers as she continues to pursue success on the global stage.

With an impressive record, growing international experience and unwavering determination, Sakshi Chaudhary heads to Glasgow carrying the hopes of the nation and aiming to add another prestigious medal to her rapidly expanding list of achievements.