Azizulhasni Awang Vows to Fight in Final Commonwealth Games Appearance

Malaysian track cycling star Datuk Azizulhasni Awang is determined to compete fiercely at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, refusing to concede defeat despite his age and the event marking his final appearance.

Awang, known as 'The Pocket Rocketman,' is set to compete in the keirin event, with the first round scheduled for Friday evening and the final early Saturday morning. After more than a decade of competing in the Commonwealth Games, he views the 2026 edition as his last opportunity to secure a gold medal, an achievement that has eluded him thus far.

"Whatever the outcome of this Commonwealth Games, I will always be proud of myself," Awang stated. "From a village boy with big dreams to having the opportunity to represent the country on one of the world's biggest stages, it is a journey I will always be grateful for. This will be my last appearance at the Commonwealth Games. I have done everything to prepare, and now I leave the rest to God's will. Whatever He has ordained is for the best."

Awang's Commonwealth record includes two bronze medals, one in the team sprint at New Delhi 2010 and another in the keirin at Glasgow 2014. He missed the 2022 Birmingham Games due to heart surgery. This year, he faces stiff competition from world-class cyclists, including former 2022 world champion Matthew Richardson of England, Australian ace Leigh Hoffman, and defending Commonwealth champion Nicholas Paul of Trinidad and Tobago.

Despite the formidable field, Awang's recent performance shows he remains a strong contender. He won the UCI Nations Cup keirin event in Perth in March and repeated his success in Nilai in April, demonstrating his continued prowess on the track. He is committed to giving his utmost effort in his final Commonwealth Games appearance.