Mary Kom to forego Asian Games

The 35-year-old will not be comfortable switching weight categories for the event, according to a Boxing Federation of India official.

Mary Kom won a gold medal in the Commonwealth Games earlier this year in the 48kg weight category. Photo: AFP

Iconic boxer M. C. Mary Kom will forego the upcoming Asian Games, informed a Boxing Federation of India (BFI) official on Thursday.

Five-time World champion and London Olympics bronze medallist Mary, who had bagged a gold medal in 51kg in the last edition of the Asian Games in Incheon, won a gold medal in her maiden Commonwealth Games appearance earlier this year and an Asian championship title last year after coming down to 48kg.

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“It will be difficult for her to switch to 51kg for the Asian Games in a short time. Her focus is on the women’s World championship, which will be held in Delhi in November,” said the BFI official.

Taking a break

A source close to Mary also confirmed that the 35-year-old would not be in fray for a spot in the Asiad, to be held Indonesia from August 18 to September 2.

“She has been doing well since her return to 48kg and switching weight frequently is not easy. She is tired because of her hectic training schedule and work in Parliament. She will take a break after her return from the camp in Italy,” said the source.