Olympics can give big boost to Indian sports, says boxing legend Mary Kom

Mary Kom has never shied away from a fight — whether inside the boxing ring or in her relentless pursuit of breaking barriers for women in sports. On International Women’s Day, the six-time world champion made a compelling case for greater support for female athletes and championed India’s Olympic bid as a transformative opportunity for the nation’s sporting landscape.

An olympic vision for India

“The Olympics would be a monumental boost for Indian sports. It would provide athletes the opportunity to represent their country on home soil — an experience that is nothing short of a dream come true,” she told Gulf News.

Speaking at Aster DM Healthcare’s Diva 2025 programme, held in collaboration with Amity University Dubai, the 42-year-old boxing legend emphasized the importance of empowering women and fostering ambition.

The event, themed Women of Today: Accelerating Ambition, featured an interactive session with Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare.

Championing women’s empowerment

Reflecting on resilience and determination, Mary Kom said, “Women possess incredible strength. We are capable of breaking barriers and achieving extraordinary feats. The key is to believe in ourselves and never back down in the face of challenges.”

In a heartfelt revelation, Kom shared her decision to adopt a baby girl. “I always wanted a daughter, and now I have one,” she said, reinforcing the significance of making independent life choices.

Alisha Moopen echoed Kom’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of passion and self-awareness. “Passion is the fuel that drives you every morning.

While external pressures may steer you in different directions, knowing what you truly want and playing to your strengths is crucial,” she advised, offering valuable insight to aspiring athletes and professionals alike.

A legacy of resilience

Born in a small village in Manipur, Mary Kom’s journey has been one of sheer perseverance. She momentarily stepped away from boxing to embrace motherhood but returned with an inspiring comeback, clinching bronze at the London 2012 Olympics.

Now serving as the chairperson of the Indian Olympic Association’s Athletes Commission, she remains a vocal advocate for expanding the nation’s sporting culture beyond cricket.

“Boxing has witnessed a tremendous transformation under the current government. Initiatives like Khelo India have played a crucial role in nurturing talent and elevating non-cricket sports,” Kom noted, revealing her plans to open a branch of the Mary Kom Academy in Dubai.

The Khelo India initiative aims to develop young sporting talent by improving infrastructure, hosting competitions, and establishing training academies.

A bright future for Indian boxing

With women’s boxing on the rise in India, Kom is optimistic about its future. “Female boxers have made remarkable strides in recent years, and I am confident they will continue to bring home more medals,” she stated.

As India sets its sights on hosting the 2036 Olympics, Mary Kom hopes the nation will rally behind its athletes. “We need the collective support of the entire country to promote all sports, not just cricket. If we come together, India can truly become a global sporting powerhouse.”

With her unwavering spirit and advocacy, Mary Kom continues to inspire a new generation — one punch at a time.