On Friday (Philippine time), Aira Villegas, a Filipina boxer, became the second member from Team Philippines’ boxing team to qualify for the Paris Olympics 2024 quarterfinals.
Upon celebrating her 29th birthday, Villegas gave herself a perfect present by defeating Algeria’s No. 2 Roumaysa Boualam, bringing her one step closer to a medal in Paris.
Villegas has won two straight unanimous decisions and has so far shown aptitude during her time at the Olympics.
After dropping two potential medals from Eumir Marcial and Hergie Bacyadan, she defeated Yasmine Mouttaki on points to lead Team Philippines into the Paris Olympics.
Three other Filipino boxers are vying for medals, where Villegas needs one more victory to secure at least a bronze medal in Paris.
Nesthy Petecio aims to move to the following round on Sunday, while Carlo Paalam, who won his debut on Thursday and had a bye to the round of 16, earned a spot in the quarterfinals.
Villegas will face Wassila Lkhadiri from France and their quarterfinal round will be on August 4.
Photo courtesy: Sports Inquirer