Indian Boxing Icon Mary Kom Announces Retirement

New Delhi: Six-time World Champion and 2012 Olympic medallist, Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom, bid farewell to her illustrious boxing career on Wednesday, citing the International Boxing Association’s (IBA) age limit for elite-level competition. The 41-year-old boxing legend acknowledged her continued hunger for competition but expressed regret that age restrictions prevent her from participating.

Speaking at an event, Mary Kom shared, “I have the hunger still, but unfortunately, because of the age limit, it is over. I cannot compete in any competition. I want to play more, but I am being forced to quit (due to the age limit). I have to retire. I have achieved everything in my life.”

Mary Kom, the first female boxer in history to secure six world titles, also became the first Indian female boxer to clinch a gold medal at the 2014 Asian Games. Her illustrious career includes a bronze medal at the London 2012 Olympic Games, where she showcased her exceptional boxing style.

Her journey began at the age of 18 in the inaugural world meet in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where she made it to the final of the 48kg category. Although she fell short in the final, it set the stage for her remarkable success in the years to come.

Mary Kom’s achievements include gold medals at the AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2010. After a brief hiatus following her 2008 title win, she made a triumphant return and secured her eighth world medal in 2019, the highest by any male or female boxer.

Her legacy extends beyond the boxing ring, serving as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and paving the way for women in sports. Mary Kom’s contributions have left an indelible mark on Indian boxing and have earned her a place among the all-time greats in the sport.