Boxing champion Mary Kom inspires footballer Jeakson Singh

Sportspersons often draw inspiration from athletes in their own sport. But Jeakson Singh, the first Indian footballer to score a goal in the World Cup, is an exception.

The 16-year-old, it turns out, looks up to boxing champion Mary Kom, who like him, also hails from Manipur.

"Mary Kom has three children, is a five-time boxing champion and an Olympic medallist. All of this is very inspiring. I wish to be like her and never give up," the defensive midfielder told ETPanache, adding that he wants to emulate the work-life balance Kom has maintained. Now that's something you don't hear often.