If there was one moment that summed up her mindset, it came when she was asked who she was dedicating her medal to.
“This is for everyone,” she said. “The whole of India has high hopes for me. Everyone’s prayers and blessings are with me. Everyone has supported me, and this medal is for everyone.”
Inside the ring, there was little doubt about the result.
Boxing from her trademark southpaw stance, Preeti controlled the contest from the opening bell. Sharp combinations and intelligent movement forced a standing count in the first round, giving her an early advantage.
Mwape tried to raise the intensity in the second round, but Preeti responded with clinical counter-punching and another standing count, widening the gap on the judges’ scorecards.
By the final round, the Indian had complete control. Crisp body shots and swift left-right combinations ensured there would be no late comeback as she sealed a comprehensive unanimous decision.
Standing between Preeti and Commonwealth Games glory is Canada’s Scarlett Delgado, whom she will face in Saturday’s gold medal bout.
Victory would cap a remarkable year for the Indian boxer, who has already won titles at the World Cup and the Asian Championships.
Now, she has one more summit to conquer. One more fight. One more chance to turn an assured medal into a golden one