LONDON – Queen Underwood is grateful to every woman whose collective fight allowed her to become the first American woman to climb into an Olympic boxing ring.

When she takes that historic step between the ropes Sunday, she’ll be thinking more about the fight that’s right in front of her.

That’s because British lightweight Natasha Jonas will be trying to knock her block off.

Women’s boxing is an Olympic sport for the first time in London, taking over the ring for a five-day tournament ending in its first three gold medals.

A sport that was banned in Britain until 1996 will be contested by 36 fighters from six continents. They’re eager to showcase the skill and diversity of a sport that only recently has gained acceptance in most parts of the world. 

BRITISH HURDLER Jack Green was in tears after failing to advance to the 400-meter hurdle finals.

“I hit hurdle three because I’m an idiot,” said Green, who bloodied his knees.

It was a humbling moment for the young hurdler, who is hopeful he’ll still be considered for Britain’s 4×400 relay team.

“I’m not good enough on this level like I thought I was,” he said. “I need to get on that relay team and show people what I can really do with a baton in my hand.” 

SPORTS MET politics when North Korea took on South Korea in table tennis.

South Korea won 3-1 and, as usual, the North Koreans wouldn’t speak to reporters.

South Korean Coach Yoo Nam-kyu said players chat in the players village but there’s tension on the court.

“We are the same people and speak the same language, but politically we are not very friendly at the moment,” Yoo said. “When we talk, it’s about everyday life. We don’t talk political stuff.” 

ONE OF THE loudest roars at Olympic Stadium came when Prince William and his wife, Kate, were shown on the scoreboard during track and field.

The couple was sitting in the stands, with “Wills” looking like any average sports fan, a red baseball cap atop his head.

Seated next to the prince: Prime Minister David Cameron. 

KIM COLLINS, a former 100-meter world champion, was expelled by his team for missing training sessions. He said he was being punished for spending time with his wife.

Collins, the 2003 world champion, said he showed up at the athletes village Saturday morning and found his accreditation was canceled, locking him out.

Collins was hoping to compete in his fifth straight Olympics and carried the St. Kitts and Nevis flag at the opening ceremony.

His absences included visits to see his wife, who arrived in London on Wednesday. Collins said that he found the village stressful.

Collins had posted on his Twitter account that “Even men in prison get their wives to visit.”