Imphal, Jan 25: Boxing champion Mary Kom has clarified recent reports stating that she has announced retirement, asserting that she has been misquoted. During a school event in Dibrugarh on Wednesday, where she was motivating children, Mary Kom explained that she still harbors the ambition to achieve in sports.

She acknowledged the age limit in the Olympics restricting her participation but highlighted her ongoing commitment to her sport and fitness. Mary Kom emphasised that she has not officially announced retirement and assured that when the time comes, she will personally inform the media about her decision.

Mary made her name in boxing history as the first female boxer to secure six world titles. A five-time Asian champion, she made a groundbreaking achievement by becoming the first Indian female boxer to claim gold at the 2014 Asian Games. Her prowess extended to the London 2012 Olympic Games, where she earned a bronze medal, leaving no record or title untouched. Mary embarked on her remarkable journey at the age of 18, introducing herself to the world at the inaugural world meet in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

With her outstanding performances, she reached the final in the 48kg category, hinting at her future success. In the years that followed, she became the first Indian to win a gold medal at the AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships. Mary continued her winning streak, securing World Championships titles in 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2010. Taking a break after winning in 2008, she became a mother to twins.

Following her success at the 2012 Olympics, Mary took another break after welcoming her third child. However, she made a triumphant return, securing the top spot in the 2018 World Championships held in Delhi. She demonstrated her dominance with a 5-0 victory over Ukraine’s Hanna Okhota, claiming her sixth world title. In the subsequent year, she further solidified her legacy by winning her eighth world medal, a remarkable achievement unmatched by any male or female boxer.