Indian boxing legend Mary Kom announces retirement due to age-limit restrictions

Sports Desk, 25th January: In a heartfelt announcement on January 25, 2024, Mary Kom, affectionately known as “Magnificent Mary,” confirmed her retirement from amateur boxing. This decision is compelled by the age-limit regulations set by the International Boxing Association (IBA), as Mary Kom, at 41 years old, surpasses the elite boxer age cap of 40.

Mary Kom’s illustrious career spans over two decades, commencing with her debut on the international stage in 2001. Throughout her journey, she confronted various challenges, including societal norms discouraging women in sports, financial hardships, and a lack of proper training facilities.

Despite these obstacles, Mary Kom achieved remarkable success, notably winning six titles at the World Amateur Boxing Championship and securing a medal in each of her seven world championship appearances.

Standing at 5’2″, Mary Kom set new standards in amateur boxing without venturing into professional competition. In 2015, she became the first amateur athlete in India to surpass several professionals in earnings, endorsements, and awards, earning the prestigious Padma Bhushan.

Mary Kom’s retirement announcement is tinged with a sense of unfulfilled desire, expressing her wish to continue competing for another five years. Unfortunately, the rules don’t permit such an extension. Despite her aspirations for the Asian Games to be her swansong, an ACL injury during last year’s Commonwealth Games selection trials and subsequent surgery have posed challenges to her recovery and return to the ring.

However, Mary Kom’s legacy as a trailblazer in women’s boxing remains intact. Her story of triumph over personal and professional hurdles, inspiring generations of athletes, will endure beyond her retirement from the ring.

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