Always moving forward, seeking results and being fast, Yeni said goodbye to the Olympic Games by achieving the fourth Olympic Diploma for Colombia in Paris 2024.
On the afternoon of Thursday, August 1, Yeni Arias was eliminated in the 54-kilogram category during the quarterfinal match against South Korean Aeji Im after a split decision from the judges 3 – 2 at the North Paris Arena.
When the bell rang, Yeni tried to keep her guard up and deliver several quick and direct punches against an opponent who kept her distance and maintained continuous movement in the ring. The first round was close, with much precision in the punches, ending with a split decision (3 – 2) in favor of the Asian fighter.
Before the second round, the Colombian coach insisted to Yeni that she cut off her opponent’s movement but not to chase her, as she aimed to break the South Korean’s defense. The second round was tough for the Colombian; the Asian fighter maintained her distance, was precise with her punches, and constantly moved to the center of the ring. Once again, the split decision (3 – 2) favored Aeji.
In the final round, it was all or nothing; the Colombian went out seeking the result, however, the South Korean kept her at bay and smartly delayed the fight as much as possible by constantly hugging her opponent. The third round resulted in 4 – 1 in favor of Im, and the final decision from the judges was split, with the 3 – 2 naming Aeji the winner of the match.
With her head held high and true to her fighting style, Yeni Arias said farewell to the Olympic Games in a close match where she always gave her all.