I want to retire after Tokyo Olympics, says Mary Kom

After years of speculation over her retirement, six-time world champion MC Mary Kom on Thursday said she plans to hang her gloves after winning the elusive gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.

The 36-year-old has been the inspiring force in Indian boxing. In her 18-year long illustrious career, she has won six World Championships, an Olympic bronze medal, and five Asian Championships.

Besides being an active and top-level boxer, she is also a sitting Rajya Sabha MP.

"After 2020 I want to retire. So my main mission is to get a gold for India. I really really want to win ( gold)," Mary Kom said on the sidelines of an event organised by Colgate.

Mary Kom won the the bronze medal in the flyweight category at the 2012 London Olympics. She now aims to change the shade of her medal to gold.

"I always try my best to give a medal to the country and if possible a gold. I will be starting my preparation for the Olympic qualifiers and the World Championship. I want to win a gold medal this time."
"We are training regularly for all competitions not just the Olympics. In the World Championship, I will get to know the opponents, what their strengths and weaknesses are. Accordingly I can prepare. I will also get extra time for preparing if the qualifiers are held later."