19 days of adrenaline-pumping, heart-stopping, jaw-dropping moments have come to an end. The XXXIII Olympic Games in Paris 2024 have left us all in awe and inspired us to reach for our dreams. And what better way to end it all than with a spectacular closing ceremony at the legendary Stade de France in St Denis.

Represented by 26 athletes across nine sports, the Malaysian contingent returned home with two bronze medals and several new national records, making a significant mark on the global stage.

In a statement summarizing their Olympic experience, Team Malaysia praised the successful organization of the 33rd edition of the Games and extended their gratitude to everyone who contributed to the journey.

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“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all team managers, officials from the OCM, MSN, ISN, and the Malaysia House secretariat for their tireless efforts in managing our contingent without any major issues,” the team said.
Among the team’s achievements were three new national records. Mohamad Aniq Kasdan set new benchmarks in the 61kg weightlifting category, while Dato’ Mohd Azizul Hasni Awang and Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri broke records in men’s and women’s sprint cycling, respectively.

“Nurul Izzah is a shining star in Malaysian cycling, proving her capabilities by setting a new national record and advancing further than any other Malaysian woman in sprint cycling history,” the team proudly stated.

The team also celebrated the success of the badminton squad, the men’s doubles pair, Aaron Chia Teng Fong and Soh Wooi Yik, who won a bronze medal after a tense match against Denmark as well as Lee Zii Jia in Men’s Singles Badminton who clinched bronze.

However, Team Malaysia also acknowledged the challenges they faced. Finishing 80th overall and 18th among Asian countries, the team recognized the need for continued development and support for young athletes.
“Several of our athletes made their Olympic debut in Paris, and their experiences here will be crucial as we prepare for the next Olympic Games,” the team emphasized.

One of the standout performances came from weightlifter Aniq Kasdan, who narrowly missed out on a medal by just one kilogram.

“Aniq Kasdan nearly caused a major upset, finishing just behind the American athlete in the 61kg weightlifting category,” the team noted, highlighting the narrow margin that separated him from a podium finish. The team also paid tribute to veteran athletes like Dato’ Mohd Azizul Hasni Awang, who made his fifth Olympic appearance.

Our veteran athletes have set a high standard, and their experience is invaluable for our younger team members. Looking ahead, the team is focused on nurturing the next generation of athletes, particularly those who made their Olympic debut in Paris.

“These young talents, including Aniq Kasdan, Bertrand Rhodict Anak Lises, and Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri, must continue to receive the necessary support as we build towards the 2028 Olympics,” the team asserted.
Finally, Team Malaysia expressed their deep gratitude to all supporters, including the Malaysian Embassy in Paris and the fans who travelled from Kuala Lumpur.

Indeed, we are deeply grateful for the encouragement and cooperation from everyone involved, which made the entire Olympians journey at the Paris 2024 Olympics possible.

Source : Arena
Image Credit : OlympicMas