Boxing legend MC Mary Kom made headlines today after issuing a public apology following widespread criticism over remarks she made about her ex‑husband during a television interview. The response to her apology video has been mixed, with many netizens calling the message “scripted” and questioning its sincerity. Mary Kom, a six‑time world boxing champion and Olympic medallist, appeared to address the situation through an Instagram video in which she clarified the context of her earlier comments and expressed regret for any hurt caused.
What Triggered the Controversy: Mary Kom’s Comments About Her Ex‑Husband
The controversy started after Mary Kom appeared on the popular talk show Aap Ki Adalat, where she discussed her personal life and marriage to Onler Kom, her former husband. During the show, she made a remark suggesting that he “didn’t earn even a single rupee” during their marriage, a comment that immediately spread across social media and was widely criticised.
In the lengthy segment, she also referenced that Onler once played football but had not become a professional athlete and described his career as having been limited to local games. This part of the interview did not sit well with many viewers, particularly because it came across as dismissive of his efforts.
The Apology Video: What Mary Kom Said
Responding to the backlash, Mary Kom shared a video on her official Instagram account addressing her comments. In the video, she clarified that her words were spoken out of personal conflict and emotional pain, not intended to offend all men or diminish the value of men’s work. She apologised “especially to the wider male community” for any disappointment or hurt felt because of her statements. Mary Kom also explained that her Hindi might not be perfect, which may have contributed to misunderstandings in how her comment was perceived. She stressed that her remarks were not against youth football, football culture, or the sporting fraternity in general. She said her comment about her ex‑husband was linked to their personal conflict and emotional distress, particularly related to their divorce and trust issues.
Mary Kom Faces Mixed Reactions on Social Media After Apology
The public reaction to Mary Kom’s apology has been intense:
- Critics accused the video of being “scripted” because of visible cuts and emotional framing. Several users commented that a sincere apology would not appear so heavily edited.
- Some wrote that if she truly wished to apologise, it should have been directed to her ex‑husband rather than the public at large.
At the same time, supporters rallied behind her, emphasising her achievements and urging critics not to judge her without knowing the full context.
Mary Kom’s Divorce and Allegations: The Full Backstory
Mary Kom and Onler Kom were married for over two decades before finalising their divorce in 2023 under customary law, as she confirmed in earlier statements. During the Aap Ki Adalat interview and subsequent public discourse, Mary made multiple claims about financial issues in their marriage, including allegations that her ex‑husband had withdrawn large sums from her account without her consent and transferred property titles into his name.
In response, Onler Kom has denied many of these allegations and countered with claims that Mary Kom had engaged in extramarital relationships during the marriage. He said he has proof of such incidents and rejected the financial accusations. Both sides are publicly asserting conflicting narratives, and there is no official court finding confirming either claim to date.
Mary Kom’s Legacy and Career
Despite the controversy, Mary Kom remains one of India’s most celebrated athletes. She is a six‑time world boxing champion and an Olympic medallist. Her life was the inspiration behind the 2014 biopic Mary Kom, starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Her sporting achievements span over two decades, earning her a reputation as a trailblazer in women’s boxing and a role model for young athletes across India.
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Why Mary Kom’s Apology Is Facing Massive Backlash
This situation has sparked broader discussions online about celebrity accountability, gender expectations, and how public figures handle personal disclosures. Many analysts suggest that her comments might have resonated differently if framed with more sensitivity, especially when mentioned on national television. Critics argue that dismissive remarks about someone’s career, even in personal conflict, can resonate poorly with audiences. Supporters say emotional honesty should not be punished. The debate highlights how public narratives can quickly spiral on social media, particularly when they involve high‑profile figures.
