England secured three boxing gold medals in a dominant display during the first session of competition at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Sacha Hickey, Patris Mughalzai, and Isaac Okoh all reached the top of the podium within a two-hour span, highlighting the strength of England’s amateur boxing program.

The standout moment came in the heavyweight division, where Isaac Okoh defeated Wales’ Connor Williams to claim gold. Following his victory, Okoh extended a playful invitation to the Prince of Wales, suggesting that William join him for a training session—albeit with a humorous warning about the cost. “If he wants a pad session, tell him to call me. But the fee is quite high!” Okoh said. He expressed hope that the royal family might attend future bouts, appreciating the energetic atmosphere throughout the week.

Okoh emphasized his ambitions beyond the Commonwealth Games, setting his sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He cited his recent medal streak since September as evidence of his rising status in the sport, saying, “I feel like I’m one of the best in the world at 90kg at the minute. I’m still young... Come LA, I’ll be looking to win another gold.” He framed these victories as stepping stones toward major professional opportunities and greater recognition.

Fellow gold medalists Hickey and Mughalzai shared stories of their journey through England’s boxing system. All three medal winners, including Damar Thomas, progressed through the same junior boxing pathway in London and now train together in Sheffield under Team GB performance director Rob McCracken.

Hickey, after defeating Northern Ireland’s Kaci Rock, spoke about the significance of her achievement amid increasing acceptance of women’s boxing. “When I started, women’s boxing wasn’t really accepted. To be here and win a gold is just unbelievable,” she said. Mughalzai, who won the men’s 65kg final against Australia’s Jacob Cassar, highlighted the shared history with his teammates. “There are three people here who I’ve known through my childhood... [we’ve] been winning national championships together and to get here on the big stage is amazing,” he commented.

In netball, England’s hopes of reaching the gold medal match were dashed following a semi-final defeat by New Zealand. The loss prevented a rematch with Jamaica, who eliminated Australia in a surprise upset. England, last Commonwealth champions in 2018, will face Australia in the bronze medal match. Coach Anna Stembridge acknowledged the challenge posed by the Silver Ferns, pointing to their effective defense and England’s relative inexperience at this stage. “We’ve got 10 players who have never played in a Commonwealth Games semi-final before. The experience will be instrumental for the World Cup and beyond,” she said.

England’s 800-meter champion Georgia Hunter Bell departed Glasgow for Portugal to prepare for the European Championships. She plans to switch focus to the 1500m event in Birmingham and is reuniting with training partner Keely Hodgkinson, who did not compete in Glasgow. Hunter Bell described their relationship as both competitive and supportive.

On the golf course, England’s Lottie Woad and Charley Hull remain contenders as the AIG Women’s Open approaches its final round at Royal Lytham & St Annes. American Yealimi Noh leads after the third day with a three-shot advantage on 3-under par. Woad, at 4-under, is four shots behind and placed seventh, while Hull is tied for eighth at 2-under.

Woad, who posted a one-under 70 in challenging windy conditions, said she felt better on the greens and managed to navigate the course well. Hull, despite a rough start that saw her lose three shots in six holes, bounced back with multiple birdies to remain competitive. Both English players remain in contention as the tournament moves toward its conclusion.