Don't Pressure Azizulhasni Awang for 2028 Olympics, Urges Khairy Jamaluddin

Datuk Azizulhasni Awang, affectionately known as 'The Pocket Rocketman,' is at a crossroads, and former Malaysian National Cycling Federation (PKBM) Vice President Khairy Jamaluddin is urging caution against undue pressure regarding his potential participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Khairy's firm stance is that the decision rests solely with Azizulhasni and his family, emphasizing that external expectations should not dictate the twilight of his illustrious career.

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He will race until the Asian Games and after that, he needs to discuss with his family about what he wants to do.

While fans and the cycling fraternity express hopes for a final Olympic hurrah, Khairy, speaking at a PKBM appreciation dinner, stressed that Azizulhasni should first focus on the upcoming Asian Games. "He will race until the Asian Games and after that, he needs to discuss with his family about what he wants to do," Khairy stated. He added, "I don't think it's fair for us to put pressure on him to continue until LA 2028 because he is almost 40 years old and has sacrificed a lot of time with his family."

Khairy also touched upon the increasing complexities of managing veteran athletes. The physical toll of elite cycling at an advanced age presents significant challenges, including a higher risk of injuries and extended recovery periods compared to younger athletes. "If he decides to continue his career for a few more years, we need to ensure that support is provided, especially in terms of sports science, including recovery and injury treatment," Khairy noted. He also suggested that if support from the National Sports Council (MSN) proves insufficient, the private sector, including sponsors like CIMB, should step in to assist.

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I don't think it's fair for us to put pressure on him to continue until LA 2028 because he is almost 40 years old and has sacrificed a lot of time with his family.

Azizulhasni Awang has already etched his name in Malaysian sporting history, becoming the nation's first cycling Olympic medalist with a bronze at Rio 2016 and a silver at Tokyo 2020. His Paris 2024 campaign, however, ended in disappointment. From a Malaysian perspective, Azizulhasni's legacy is immense, and while the dream of a final Olympic appearance is understandable, respecting his personal journey and well-being is paramount. This situation highlights the delicate balance between national aspirations and the individual athlete's physical and personal circumstances, a conversation that resonates deeply within our sporting culture.

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If he decides to continue his career for a few more years, we need to ensure that support is provided, especially in terms of sports science, including recovery and injury treatment.