On a day she was roped in as brand ambassador of the traditional Thai boxing and mentioned by U.S. President Barack Obama in his speech, boxing superstar M.C. Mary Kom relished her emerging status as a global sporting icon.
Mary Kom, a five-time world champion, an Olympic medallist and the current Asian Games gold medallist, was thrilled to attract international attention.
“It is a great honour for me, especially [when my name is spreading] from one country to another,” she told The Hindu on the sidelines of an event organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand here on Tuesday.
“It is great to be honoured as a brand ambassador for Thai boxing…They are bringing it to India. At a time when crime against women is increasing, we can learn Thai boxing for self-defence too,” she said. Mary Kom said she was surprised to learn that Mr. Obama mentioned her name in his speech. “It is one of my happiest moments — the American President acknowledged my performance. I am really proud to be an Indian and feel very happy.”
Aspiring for a gold medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics, the 31-year-old said the shoulder injury she picked up four months ago during the Asian Games had started to heal. “I have already started my training. I am feeling much better now. Even though I travel a lot, I do my workout at the hotel every day.”
Mary Kom, who needs to perform well in the world championship in February 2016 to qualify for the Olympics, said she might return to competitive boxing early next year. “I am looking forward to a big competition [prior to the world championship]. Maybe this year, I will not participate in any event. Next year, I will take part in one or two good competitions and gather experience,” she said.
Published - January 27, 2015 03:55 pm IST