Emma aims to redeem disappointment, target bronze at Glasgow Commonwealth Games

Malaysian lawn bowls athlete Emma Firyana Saroji is determined to overcome past disappointments and secure at least a bronze medal at her fourth Commonwealth Games appearance in Glasgow this July. Having been eliminated in the semi-finals in the previous edition, Emma is adopting a cautious approach to her goals.

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I don't want to set my sights too high. The important thing is that I want to come home with a medal this time. Step by step.

"I don't want to set my sights too high. The important thing is that I want to come home with a medal this time. Step by step," Emma told Mingguan Malaysia. She has previously competed in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Emma recognizes that the competition will be tougher this year, as only two events are available for both men and women, narrowing the opportunities for medal wins. "When there are only two events for men and two for women, the responsibility becomes heavier. We have to focus and try to ensure we get at least one medal for the country," she stated.

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When there are only two events for men and two for women, the responsibility becomes heavier. We have to focus and try to ensure we get at least one medal for the country.

Regarding her preparation, Emma highlighted the challenge of transitioning to a fully indoor format using portable greens, a facility that is not permanently available for training in Malaysia. "My current performance is okay, but there are still a few things that need improvement. We are still training and will attend a camp and undergo intensive training before departing," she explained.

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My current performance is okay, but there are still a few things that need improvement. We are still training and will attend a camp and undergo intensive training before departing.

As a senior athlete leading the women's squad, Emma admits to feeling pressure but insists it is manageable and viewed positively. "The pressure is there, but it's not to the point of being disruptive. We consider this like any other tournament, just on a larger scale. Our focus is on minimizing mistakes," she said. She also views the presence of teammates like Syafiqa Haidar Afif Abdul Rahman and Aleena Ahmad Nawawi as a significant strength, providing valuable experience, especially in adapting to world-class competition environments.

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The pressure is there, but it's not to the point of being disruptive. We consider this like any other tournament, just on a larger scale. Our focus is on minimizing mistakes.