Rabat – Amira Tahri, a Dutch-Moroccan sports phenomenon at just 15, is turning a new page in her athletic career, transitioning from kickboxing, where she recently secured her ninth world title, to competitive boxing.
Her sights are set on the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, a move that reflects her determination to join the ranks of elite athletes in a sport that rewards technical precision and unyielding discipline.
Having embarked on her kickboxing journey at the age of six, Tahri’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Known for her unrelenting focus and nimble footwork, she has maintained an undefeated record — with 28 wins and no losses.
Her skill and presence in the ring have earned her the title of “Wonder Girl” in kickboxing, a sport that has seen few competitors reach her level of success, especially at such a young age.
In making the leap to boxing, Tahri’s choice reflects her aspiration to compete at the Olympic level, as kickboxing does not yet feature in the Games.
Her new journey will demand a shift in her training focus, requiring her to hone a different set of techniques, including defensive strategies and stamina-building drills essential for boxing’s rigorous rounds.
The Dutch Olympic Committee is likely to support her efforts as she steps up her preparation, ensuring she receives the expert coaching and resources needed to compete at the highest level.
Tahri’s father, Younes, who has coached her from the beginning, remains a central figure in her training routine, overseeing every detail, from physical conditioning to diet. “My dad makes sure I have everything I need to be at my best,” she shares, underscoring the critical role of family in her journey.
Read also: Morocco’s Wondergirl Amira Tahri Makes History with New World Title Victory
Alongside her father, Tahri has assembled a dedicated support team known as “Team Tahri,” which includes top trainers and coaches who will guide her through the technical and physical adaptations required for boxing.
As she transitions to this new arena, Tahri’s social media presence continues to grow, capturing the imagination of her 281,000 Instagram followers. Her training videos, frequently set against Dubai’s striking skyline, often feature appearances with high-profile figures like actors Jamie Foxx and Michael B. Jordan, as well as professional athletes such as Memphis Depay and Achraf Hakimi.
Despite her young age, her collaborations with stars and her recent endorsement deal with Nike have catapulted her into a sphere few teenage athletes experience.
Amidst the fame, Tahri retains a modest charm. When she met Manchester City’s Erling Haaland during a Nike campaign, she admitted she didn’t recognize the soccer star.
“I didn’t know who he was,” she laughed, revealing a grounded nature that her fans find endearing.
Tahri’s decision to focus on boxing brings her closer to a dream that now feels within reach—representing her country on one of the most prestigious global stages.
Her relentless training schedule, which includes enrolling in a specialized sports academy, signals her readiness to embrace this rigorous journey, working with expert trainers to prepare her for the intense demands of Olympic competition.
“We have big ambitions, but we need to prove ourselves on the ground” she says, reflecting on her path forward. As she looks toward Los Angeles 2028, Tahri’s ambition and dedication point to a future filled with possibility and promise.
