“I regret that I cannot take on this prestigious responsibility and would like to resign for personal reasons,” Mary Kom wrote to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha.
Mary Kom will not be India’s chef de mission at the 2024 Paris Olympics as the six-time world boxing champion has decided to resign from her post as she had “no choice” due to personal reasons. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha has revealed that Mary Kom, who was announced as India’s chef de mission for the Paris Games on March 21, has requested to be relieved of her duties through a letter.
“I consider it an honor to serve my country in any way possible, and I was mentally prepared for it. However, I regret that I cannot take on this prestigious responsibility and would like to resign for personal reasons,” the 41-year-old said in a letter to PT Usha.
“It’s embarrassing to go back on a commitment, which I rarely do, but I have no choice. I am here to cheer on my country and the athletes participating in these Olympic Games, with high expectations,” she wrote.
The 2012 London Olympics bronze medalist was to be the logistics manager for the Indian contingent in Paris.
“We are sad that Olympic medalist boxer and IOA Athletes’ Commission Chair Mary Kom has resigned due to personal reasons. We respect her decision and her privacy,” Usha said in a statement.
“I will carry out appropriate consultations and make an announcement regarding Mary Kom’s replacement soon.”
Usha added that she had a word with Mary Kom after her resignation.
“I completely understand his request and respect his decision. I also let her know that she would always have my own support and that of the IOA. I also ask everyone to respect the privacy of the legendary boxer,” she said.
