Indian boxers want more after Olympic breakthrough

By N.Ananthanarayanan

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Wearing a tight, black vest emblazoned with the world "Invincible", Indian boxer Vijender Kumar is enjoying the glamorous life that an Olympic medal has brought him.

The handsome 23-year-old revels in the attention lavished on him since he won India their first Olympic boxing medal -- a bronze -- in Beijing last year.

Commercial endorsements and catwalk appearances, plus a possible film offer, have put him into a league of fame usually reserved for cricketers in India.

"People recognise me and ask about things," Kumar told Reuters. "Glamour is important for every sport these days. Earlier, it was there only in cricket and tennis."

Now, the middleweight is going for another first for India -- a world championship medal. He is part of a nine-member squad participating in the championships in Milan from Tuesday.

"Last time we broke the jinx in Beijing," Kumar said. "All boxers want to do that again and write their name in Indian boxing history. The confidence levels are high."

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