New York-based boxer Zinnat Ferdous expressed her delight after making her domestic debut in Bangladesh at the National Boxing Championships, nearly two years after first representing the country at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games.
The 31-year-old advanced to the final of the 52kg weight category after comfortably defeating Achia Khatun in the semi-final. Having received a bye in the opening round, Ferdous will face Afra Khandokar in today’s final. Afra, the elder sister of Bangladesh football captain Afeida Khandokar, beat Sejuti Islam in the other semi-final.
“When I entered the ring, many supporters were cheering for me. I felt their love because they think I’m playing for Bangladesh. It was really exciting, and I enjoyed it,” said Zinnat after completing her first bout in Bangladesh.
“I feel very good to be playing in Bangladesh for the first time after representing the country internationally for two years. Playing on home soil in front of a lot of fans is a feel-good factor for me.”
Reflecting on her opponent, she noted: “Style makes the fight. Every boxer has their own style. I think Achia was a bit different – she seemed loaded and played defensively. The fight could have been different had she been technically sound, but I never underestimated her. A win is a win.”
Ferdous, who took up boxing in 2021 at the age of 27 inspired by her husband, now works at Google and has won medals in five of the seven tournaments she has entered. She expressed her ambition to bring home gold for Bangladesh at international level.
“I want to enjoy the final fight. I’m excited and want to show my skill and technique,” she said.
“I’ve won five medals in seven tournaments. My goal is to win a medal in every event. I share the dream of winning at the upcoming South Asian Games and hope to become the first Bangladeshi boxer – male or female – to win gold in the next international tournament for Bangladesh.”
Zinnat’s parents – her father from Nawabganj and mother from Pabna – moved to New York in 1987. There, she maintains a rigorous training schedule: six days a week, running four days, boxing five days, and doing strength training three days.
Commenting on the facilities at the Mohammad Ali Boxing Stadium in Dhaka, Ferdous remained optimistic.
“I think many things can be improved in the future. But it’s a good start, and many young boxers are getting involved. In the USA, gyms are air-conditioned and have lots of equipment and coaches. With sponsor support, we can improve the environment here as well,” she said.