New Delhi [India], October 8 (ANI): Olympic medalist Mary Kom has refuted claims she plans to retire and mentioned that she nonetheless needs to compete as she is hungry to play for the nation.
Mary Kom, who gained a bronze medal within the London 2012 Olympics, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) damage whereas competing for India within the Commonwealth Games trials in June of this 12 months. She underwent reconstructive surgical procedure and is now recovering, however she says she’s going to recuperate shortly.
“Why can’t I come back? I am Mary Kom,” the Indian boxer mentioned as quoted by Olympics web site throughout a press convention on Friday.
Mary Kom is the primary feminine boxer in boxing historical past to have captured six world titles. The five-time Asian champion was the primary feminine boxer from India to take house a gold medal on the 2014 Asian Games.
The final time Mary Kom competed globally was on the Tokyo Olympics, the place she superior to the pre-quarterfinals earlier than falling to Colombian Ingrit Valencia by a 3:2 cut up choice.
“I am still hungry. I want to compete in one major tournament before I retire. And I don’t mean an invitational event, just one proper competition before I go,” Mary Kom mentioned.
Mary Kom, nevertheless, will flip 40 subsequent month, which implies she is ineligible to compete within the Paris Olympics or the Asian Games in 2019, as each competitions’ most participation age was 40 in 2013.
“I know there’s an age barrier, but I still want to compete. People want to see me in the ring. I had a complex, three-stage surgery, but I am not done yet,” Mary Kom famous.
Mary Kom has been suggested to relaxation for six months following her surgical procedure however she is keen to return to the ring sooner moderately than later.
“I have taken it as a challenge. I want to regain full fitness in less than six months. Recovery and rehab are things that I can control,” she acknowledged.
Mary Kom’s knee nonetheless has restricted motion, however she has begun her rehabilitation and energy coaching.
“About three-four months back, I could bend only 10 per cent of my knee. It will slowly be 100 per cent. Gradually the mobility and strength will return,” Mary Kom knowledgeable. (ANI)