It is the athlete's responsibility, says Mary Kom on Vinesh Phogat's 'weight management' fiasco at the Paris Olympics
Ace boxer Mary Kom, has joined in the recent weight management conversation that has stirred many debates since the Vinesh Phogat fiasco. At the Paris Olympics, India's star wrestler Vinesh made much news globally after being disqualified from competing in her gold medal match.
The DQ call was made after Vinesh was found to have exceeded the stipulated weight requirement by 100 grams. Many have since taken a stand both for and against the decision. Meanwhile, Mary Kom feels that the athlete holds the ultimate accountability. She believes no one but the athlete shall be 'blamed'.
"I felt so disappointed in the sense that I have also done the same (weight management) for the last so many years. Weight is important, that is my responsibility. I can not blame anyone," said Mary (Via Economic Times)
Kom elaborated on her stand and said her perspective comes from personal experience. An Olympic bronze medalist, Mary has had her share of struggles with cutting weight before events.
"I do not want to say this in her case. I am saying this in my case only. If I do not cut the weight properly then how will I play? I am there to win a medal and that is what I think." she added.
"The result was so, so bad" - Mary Kom opines on Indian boxing contingent's performance at the Paris Olympics
Mary Kom is one of India's brightest stars to have emerged from the sport of boxing. Having been deeply involved with the sport's growth in the country, Mary feels disappointed with India's show in Paris. The 41-year-old thinks the result must be questioned.
"We know what the result was, it was so, so bad. I want to know what is lacking. I will meet the boxers too if the situation demands. If the sports minister has the knowledge (about the issues) I want to discuss that also," Mary Kom said in the same interaction.
Notably, India had fielded a six-member boxing contingent at the Summer Games. However, the nation failed to win even a single medal and returned empty-handed.