Mary Kom resigns as India’s chef-de-mission for Paris Olympics

Mary Kom will not be India’s chef-de-mission at the 2024 Paris Olympics as the six-time world champion boxer has decided to step down from the position as she was “left with no choice” due to some personal reasons. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha revealed that Mary Kom, who was announced as India's chef-de-mission for Paris Games on 21 March, has asked to be relived of the position through a letter.

“I consider it an honour to serve my country in every way possible, and I was mentally prepared for it. However, I regret that I will not be able to uphold the prestigious responsibility and would like to resign, owing to personal reasons,” the 41-year-old said in a letter to PT Usha.

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“It is embarrassing to retreat from a commitment, which I seldom do, but I am left with no choice. I am there to cheer on my country and the athletes competing in this Olympic Games, with great expectations,” she wrote.

The 2012 London Olympics bronze-medallist was expected to be the logistical in-charge of the India’s contingent in Paris.

“We are sad that Olympic medal winning boxer and Chairperson of the IOA Athletes Commission Mary Kom has stepped down citing personal reasons. We respect her decision and her privacy,” Usha said in a statement.

“I shall make the appropriate consultations and soon make an announcement about the replacement for Mary Kom.”

Usha added that she had a word with Mary Kom after her resignation.

“I completely understand her request and respect her decision. I have also conveyed to her that she will always have my own support and that of IOA. I also request everyone to respect the legendary boxer’s privacy,” she said.