Indian boxing legend MC Mary Kom has denied reports that she has retired from the sport. The 41-year-old, a six-time world champion and a bronze medalist at the 2012 Olympics, said on Thursday that she still has the hunger to compete and achieve big things.
Mary Kom offered clarification.
“I have not announced my retirement,” Kom said. “My words were misinterpreted. I still have the hunger to achieve in sports. I will continue to fight and represent India.”
Kom’s initial retirement announcement came on Wednesday when she spoke at an event in Manipur. She said that she was retiring from all competitions due to age restrictions. The International Boxing Association (IBA) rules allow boxers to compete in elite competitions until age 40.
Still yearning to pursue new endeavors
However, Kom’s statement on Thursday clarified that she is still open to competing in non-elite competitions. She said that she is also interested in coaching and mentoring young boxers.
Kom’s retirement announcement had sparked widespread disappointment among fans and sports officials. She is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time, and her retirement would have been a significant loss for Indian sports.
Kom’s decision to continue her career is a welcome development for Indian boxing. She is still a top-level boxer and could inspire a new generation of Indian boxers.
Legacy
Kom’s career has been remarkable. She has won six world championships, a bronze medal at the Olympics, and a gold medal at the Asian Games. She is also the first Indian woman to win a world championship in boxing.
Kom’s success has helped to inspire a new generation of Indian boxers. She has shown that women can be just as successful as men in boxing.
Kom’s retirement would have been a significant loss for Indian sports, but her decision to continue her career is a welcome development. She is still a top-level boxer and could inspire a new generation of Indian boxers.