Mary Kom says she may retire after 2016 Olympics

GUWAHATI: Olympic Bronze medallist boxer M C Mary Kom today said she may retire after 2016 Olympics in Brazil though she's yet to take a final decision.

"I have not taken a final decision but maybe I will not continue after Rio Olympics. I may retire," Marykom told PTI on the sidelines of a function organised today to mark the second anniversary of Dalmia Cements in the North East, of which she is the brand ambassador.

"Training is very important and I am focusing on it so that I can win more medals for the country," she said.

Asked about her preparation for the 2016 Olympics, she said since there's no major competition this year, she will play some international invitational matches as it is necessary to play in a few matches before major tournaments.

"Playing within the ring for a competition not only tests our physical fitness but also enhances our performance and confidence level though too many competitions is also not good as it increases risk of injury," she said.

Mary Kom rued that so far she has been the only Olympic medallist from the North East though there are many sportspersons capable of bringing Olympic medals for the country.

"It is very painful for me to see that there are many talented people in the region but they are not able to bring medals for the country. I will try my best to ensure that more sporstpersons win medals from the country," she said.