Mary Kom Urges Indian Boxers to Stay Grounded, Target Gold at Asian Games and CWG

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New Delhi, March 29: Six-time world boxing champion MC Mary Kom has cautioned Indian boxers against overconfidence, urging them to stay focused and quietly aim for gold medals at major events like the Asian Games 2026 and Commonwealth Games 2026.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in New Delhi, Mary Kom emphasised the importance of maintaining humility and letting performances speak.

"I just want to tell the youngsters who will represent India that they should keep only one aim of bringing gold for the country," she said. She also advised athletes to avoid making bold public claims about winning medals.

"Sometimes in excitement athletes say in interviews that they will definitely win gold... But if it doesn't happen later, it doesn't look good. So keep that target in your heart, work hard quietly and give your best."

Focus on Preparation for Big Events

Mary Kom's comments come at a crucial time as Indian athletes prepare for upcoming global competitions, including the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.

The Olympic bronze medallist, who scripted history at the 2012 London Olympics, stressed that discipline and consistency are key to achieving success on the international stage.

From Limited Support to Strong Ecosystem

Reflecting on her own journey, Mary Kom highlighted the transformation in India's sporting ecosystem.

"In my time, we didn't have many facilities or support... Whatever little support we got, I worked very hard and proved myself," she said.

She noted that today's athletes benefit from significantly improved infrastructure and government-backed programmes such as:

Backing Khelo India Tribal Games

Mary Kom also welcomed the ongoing Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, calling it a crucial platform for identifying talent from remote regions.

Coming from the Kom tribal community herself, she underlined the importance of inclusivity in sports.

"There is so much talent in tribal communities... With the Khelo India Tribal Games, athletes from across states are getting a platform," she said.

She added that talented athletes from such events could progress into structured training systems under the Sports Authority of India.

"Tribals are extremely hardworking... If talent and hard work come together with the right support, medals will come quickly for the country," she added.

Fit India Initiative Gains Momentum

The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative, launched by Mansukh Mandaviya in December 2024, continues to grow as a nationwide movement promoting fitness.

The cycling drive has already seen participation from over 28 lakh citizens across more than 2.63 lakh locations, reflecting its scale and impact.

Gopichand Backs Everyday Fitness Culture

Meanwhile, national badminton coach Pullela Gopichand also endorsed the initiative, emphasising the need to integrate sports into daily life.

Addressing participants in Hyderabad, he encouraged young people to adopt fitness habits through accessible activities like cycling.

A Message Rooted in Experience

Mary Kom's message - delivered on the sidelines of a grassroots fitness initiative - reflects both her experience and vision for Indian sport.

As India prepares for major international events, her advice is clear: stay grounded, train hard, and let results - not words - define success.