Indian boxing legend Mary Kom resigns as Chef-de-Mission of India's Paris Olympics contingent

In an unexpected development, the renowned Indian boxer M C Mary Kom has stepped down from her role as chef-de-mission for India's team at the forthcoming Paris Olympics. The announcement came through a press release issued by the Press Trust of India (PTI). Citing personal reasons, Mary Kom, a leading figure in the realm of Indian sports, expressed her regret at having to withdraw from such a distinguished role.

"Embarrassing to retreat from a commitment, but I am left with no choice," Mary Kom disclosed, indicating her unease with the decision to step back. This move represents a crucial juncture for the Indian Olympic team, which had greatly anticipated her guidance in the upcoming Paris games.

Dr. Usha, the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), acknowledged Mary Kom's departure and assured that the process of selecting her successor is underway. "We are sad that Olympic medal-winning boxer and Chairperson of the IOA Athletes Commission Mary Kom has stepped down citing personal reasons. We respect her decision and her privacy," Dr. Usha commented. She further stated, "I shall make the appropriate consultations and soon make an announcement about the replacement for Mary Kom."

Dr. Usha also shared details about her interaction with Mary Kom following the receipt of her resignation letter, expressing understanding and ongoing support for the boxer: “I completely understand her request and respect her decision. I have also conveyed to her that she will always have my own support and that of IOA. I also request everyone to respect the legendary boxer’s privacy,” she elaborated.

In her resignation letter to the IOA President, Mary Kom expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her and her initial readiness to serve in the role. "I consider it an honour to serve my country in every way possible, and I was mentally prepared for it. However, I regret that I will not be able to uphold the prestigious responsibility and would like to resign, owing to personal reasons. It is embarrassing to retreat from a commitment, which I seldom do, but I am left with no choice,” Mary Kom explained. She also reassured, “I am there to cheer on my country and the athletes competing in this Olympic Games, with great expectations.”

Previously, upon her appointment, Mary Kom had publicly celebrated her new responsibility. She had posted on her X account, thanking the IOA: "This is a huge honour and responsibility, and I want to thank our legendary IOA president Ms. P.T.Usha and also my colleagues at the IOA for entrusting me with this responsibility. Together we look forward to support our athletes in every way possible for the best ever performance at Paris. Last but not the least, I want to thank the Sports Ministry and our dynamic sports minister for continuing to be a pillar of support to the entire community."

The resignation of Mary Kom is undoubtedly a setback for the Indian Olympic delegation, considering her vast experience and influence were deemed pivotal in steering and inspiring the athletes at such a high-profile event.

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