Overwhelmed by support, Sarita Devi vows to win an Olympic medal

Sarita Devi

Boxer Sarita Devi hopes to win a medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics after she was left overwhelmed by the support she received from Boxing India and fellow countrymen including Sachin Tendulkar.

Sarita Devi faced a life ban for her reaction on the medal ceremony at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games, but the AIBA later handed her a one-year ban that would get over next year in October. The ban can be further reduced depending on her conduct during this period.

“All my focus is on earning my country an Olympic medal”

The Manipuri boxer said at a felicitation ceremony in New Delhi that she wants to forget the past and start a new life.

The 29-year-old said, "I really thank Sachin Tendulkar, Boxing India and my fellow countrymen who stood behind me and gave me a second chance. I don't want to let go their support in vain and win an Olympic medal.

"I don't want to talk about what happened. I was very much mentally disturbed and I've forgotten every bit of it. All my focus is now on earning my country an Olympic medal in 2016."

The pugilist was furious after losing her semifinal to local favourite Ji-na Park and refused to accept the bronze medal, prompting the AIBA to suspend her indefinitely.

"Everyone learns from experience and I too have to learn to be positive... I have brought the country medals, including from Asian games, Commonwealth Games, Asian championship and World Championship. Before I put off my gloves, I want to bring Olympic glory for India," she added.