Nesthy Petecio was left stunned by the judges’ decision during her semifinal match against Poland’s Julia Szeremeta at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“Very unclear, very unclear indeed,” she told One Sports after her August 8 match in Paris. “But that’s what they saw, so there’s nothing we can do. However, there were no clear punches from her in the third round. My body shots, my hooks were landing. I don’t know. I really don’t know what happened.”
Petecio mentioned that the referee consistently warned her, suggesting a different perspective from the judges.
“Maybe I just couldn’t see what they were seeing, so it’s up to them and I respect that,” she said.
Despite the outcome, Petecio remains proud of her performance and achievements.
“I am very proud that until now, I am fighting for the country, for my family, for my dreams, and my dream of winning gold,” she said. “I thought I had it this time, but I still believe in myself. Though we weren’t lucky enough tonight to win, I am very thankful to the Lord for showing a good performance.”
When asked about her future career plans, Petecio replied, “I can’t say right now. But as long as I can, why not continue?”
Petecio secured the bronze medal on Thursday, August 8, in a closely contested bout that ended in a split decision. Poland’s Julia Szeremeta ultimately claimed victory in the women’s 57kg semifinals with scores of 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, and 28-29.
Petecio joins the ranks of Filipinos who have won multiple Olympic medals, earning the second bronze medal for the Philippines and the country’s fourth overall medal in this year’s Olympics.