Mary Kom Seeks Answers for India's Boxing Performance at Paris Olympics 2024: ‘I Have a Few Doubts’
India’s legendary boxer, Mary Kom, has voiced her concerns over India’s dismal performance in boxing at the Paris Olympics 2024. Despite having a strong contingent, which included world champions like Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain, the Indian team failed to secure even a single medal. Speaking at an event, Mary Kom expressed her desire to meet with the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to get clarity on what went wrong and address the “doubts” she has regarding the preparation and training of the athletes.
A Deep Concern for Indian Boxing
Mary Kom, a six-time world champion and the first Indian woman boxer to win an Olympic medal, is eager to understand the reasons behind India’s poor showing in Paris. Reflecting on the campaign, she said, "We know what the result was, it was so, so bad. I want to know what is lacking." Despite acknowledging that the boxers received all the logistical support they needed, Kom remains skeptical about how the training was managed by the BFI.
In her candid remarks, she suggested that while the athletes had all the infrastructure and facilities, something may have been amiss with the systematic approach to training. However, she refrained from revealing too much, noting that her concerns would be better addressed in a meeting with the federation and the sports minister. “The federation has provided all the coaches. But I have a few doubts as well,” she stated. “But what is the point in saying them now, the Olympics are done. Now there is no point in saying all that, but I want to discuss it with them in the meeting.”
Support for the Athletes and Federation
Mary Kom is not questioning the government’s efforts, emphasizing that Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and his team have done their best in terms of providing infrastructure and support. Her concerns lie more in how the BFI managed the athletes’ training programs. She noted that she would only get clarity after discussing these issues with the stakeholders, remarking, “If I do not meet them and not discuss them, how will I know about them?”
Looking Ahead: Kom’s Professional Boxing Aspirations
Beyond the Paris Olympics, Mary Kom made it clear that she is not ready to hang up her gloves yet. "I have not retired yet," she confirmed, adding that she is still waiting for an opportunity to enter professional boxing. The boxing icon, who won bronze at the London 2012 Olympics, is eager to continue competing, stating that she has the passion and drive to perform for another three to four years. “I just want to come back,” she said, emphasizing her desire to stay in the ring and make a mark in the professional circuit.
Conclusion
Mary Kom’s concerns reflect her deep commitment to Indian boxing. While India’s lackluster performance at the Paris Olympics 2024 has raised questions, her resolve to seek answers and improve the sport’s future remains unshaken. As she waits for an opportunity to fight professionally, her passion for boxing continues to inspire athletes and fans alike. The outcome of her discussions with the BFI and the sports ministry will be keenly awaited, as India looks to regroup and prepare for future international competitions.
Reference From- Firstpost.com