Mary Kom Issues Public Apology After Controversial TV Remarks
Indian boxing icon Mary Kom has publicly apologized for the remarks she made about her ex-husband, Onler Kom, during a recent television appearance. This comes after the Olympic medalist faced significant backlash on social media platforms for her comments.
The Controversial Television Appearance
Mary Kom made strong allegations against her former husband during an episode of Aap Ki Adalat, India's longest-running television show hosted by veteran journalist Rajat Sharma. In response to her statements, Onler accused Mary of infidelity, claiming their elder children were distressed by her alleged affairs.
The controversy stands in stark contrast to their previous public image. In 2017, the couple appeared together on The Tara Sharma Show, where Mary repeatedly credited Onler for supporting her boxing career. Their marriage was widely perceived as stable and inspiring, even influencing filmmaker Omung Kumar to create the 2014 biopic Mary Kom, starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
The Public Apology
In an Instagram video captioned 'Jai Hind, Jai Bharat', Mary Kom addressed the controversy directly. "I want to apologise. Many people on social media got confused due to my statements," she began.
"I sincerely apologise to everyone, especially the wider male community, who felt hurt or disappointed by my comment on the Aap Ki Adalat show. My statement was never meant to target all men, nor was it intended to insult or demean any individual," she continued.
The boxing champion explained that her remarks were "purely linked to a personal conflict and issue between us" and that she was "emotionally overwhelmed" during the interview. "Years of suppressed pain, depression, the feeling of being used, and betrayal surfaced all at once," she added.
Clarifying Misinterpretations
Mary Kom took pains to clarify several points that she felt had been misunderstood:
- She emphasized that her comments were not against youth football, football culture, or the football fraternity
- Despite being a boxer, she expressed genuine love for football and enjoys playing the sport
- She clarified that her remarks were not aimed at any sport or players
- She addressed Onler's claim about sacrificing his football career, stating he had already quit football by the time they met in Delhi
"I want to clarify that it is not true that my marriage was never successful. Everything was fine for many years. Later, when trust broke completely, things changed," she stated regarding their relationship.
Social Media Reactions
The apology received mixed reactions on social media platforms. Some users criticized what they perceived as a "scripted" apology, with one commenting "Scripted video once you get tension" and another calling it "emotional drama."
Several users pointed out the numerous cuts in the video, questioning its authenticity. One wrote: "Jab cheeze dil se nikalti hai to cuts nahi sirf emotions hote hai" (You wouldn't have needed so many cuts if you meant it).
However, many others offered support and encouragement. "People judged her so quickly without knowing both sides' story. However, I'm with her," wrote one supporter. Another added: "You are an inspiration. You can ignore this social media."
What Was Said on Aap Ki Adalat?
During her controversial appearance, Mary Kom launched a scathing attack on her ex-husband, questioning his football career achievements. She alleged that despite being a man, he lived off her earnings and did not contribute financially to their marriage.
"Kuchh bhi successful career hai hi nahi. Aap Sunil Chhetri ban gaye ya Bhaichung Bhutia ban gaye? Sach bataungi to shaadi ki, meri earning se sab kuchh mil gaya. Ek rupiya bhi nahi kamaya. Kaun hota hai ye ladka? Ladki ki kamaai khaake baith sakta hai," she had stated during the show.
The boxing legend concluded her apology by emphasizing her commitment to dignity and restraint, noting that even after her divorce in April 2025 and subsequent negative press, she had maintained her composure in public statements.
