Boxer Irma Testa wins gold in Mediterranean Games return after two-year layoff

Irma Testa, nicknamed 'Butterfly' for her light footwork, has returned to the boxing ring and claimed a gold medal at the Mediterranean Games in Taranto, marking a significant comeback after a two-year hiatus.

Testa, a trailblazer as the first Italian woman to qualify for the Olympics and win a bronze medal, had stepped away from the sport. She had even "hung up her gloves" to focus on teaching, making her return to competition and subsequent victory particularly poignant.

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This is a very important success, not just for me, but for everyone who believed in me again. It wasn't easy to believe in me. They did so despite everything and everyone. These have been very intense, very delicate months. This is the first result after my return.

The match against France's Amina Zidani in the 57 kg category was a closely contested and tactical affair, with Testa ultimately winning by a narrow 3-2 decision. The victory is a testament to her resilience and determination, especially after a period where her future in the sport seemed uncertain.

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I had completely hung up my gloves. I was teaching. I had completely hung up my gloves. To return, to do so with a gold medal at an important event, is a sign that I can still achieve great results.

"This is a very important success, not just for me, but for everyone who believed in me again," Testa stated after her win. "It wasn't easy to believe in me. They did so despite everything and everyone. These have been very intense, very delicate months. This is the first result after my return."

Testa's gold medal is part of a successful day for Italy at the Games, with the nation securing thirteen medals overall, including eight golds. The Italian boxing team had a strong showing, winning all four of their finals. Italy currently leads the overall medal standings with 110 medals.

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And then - she jokes - what a figure I would have cut if the flag bearer had gone out and not taken a medal.