Aniq wins gold amid pain, breaks Commonwealth Games record

Mohamad Aniq Kasdan's triumphant smile on the gold medal podium at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow masked significant personal sacrifice. The Malaysian weightlifting star battled severe leg cramps in both limbs and was still recovering from a shoulder injury sustained a month prior. Despite these challenges, the 24-year-old athlete delivered a stellar performance in the men's 60kg category final.

Aniq's determination shone through as he successfully completed his first lift, dispelling any doubts about his ability to compete. He went on to achieve a total lift of 273kg, not only securing the first gold medal for Malaysia but also shattering the Games record for both the clean and jerk and the overall total. This victory marked a successful defense of the title he won at the 2022 Birmingham Games.

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When warming up, my legs cramped on both sides. At that moment, I thought, 'Please don't let this day be a failure because I came here aiming for gold.' I was also worried about my shoulder because a month before coming here, I had PRP treatment on my tricep and labrum. But after the first lift, I didn't feel any pain, and at that point, I was confident today was my day.

"When warming up, my legs cramped on both sides. At that moment, I thought, 'Please don't let this day be a failure because I came here aiming for gold.' I was also worried about my shoulder because a month before coming here, I had PRP treatment on my tricep and labrum. But after the first lift, I didn't feel any pain, and at that point, I was confident today was my day," Aniq shared.

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I really didn't expect to set a record because before coming to Glasgow, my target was just one: to defend the gold medal. Alhamdulillah, both came true.

The athlete, originally from Segamat, Johor, had not set a specific target to break the Games record. His primary goal was to ensure the gold medal remained with Malaysia, with any record-breaking performance considered a bonus. "I really didn't expect to set a record because before coming to Glasgow, my target was just one: to defend the gold medal. Alhamdulillah, both came true," he said.

Aniq's remarkable achievement not only brought glory to Malaysia but also inspired his teammates. His success opened the door for the Malaysian weightlifting contingent, with Muhamad Aznil Bidin later contributing a second gold medal, and Irene Jane Henry adding a bronze, concluding another successful day for the nation in Scotland.

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This victory is very meaningful because I was able to present the first gold medal for Malaysia once again.