ALOR SETAR, Aug 7 (Bernama) -- National weightlifter Muhamad Aznil Bidin, the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games gold medalist in the men's 61 kilogramme (m) weightlifting event has dedicated his achievement to his wife and family.
"Next, I will prepare to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games, so I want to focus on that first.
"Previously I did state my intention to retire at the age of 32 but I will see how I do at the next Commonwealth Games. I want to get a third consecutive gold as there hasn't been anyone who has done that yet,” he said, adding that he valued all the sacrifices his wife and family have made thus far.
His wife, Aina Izzati Masri, 23, expressed her joy over Muhamad Aznil's win, saying that the decision to focus on her husband's training had really paid off.
She added that they did not manage to spend a lot of time together after tying the knot last November as he would spend the entire day training for the Games.
Meanwhile, Muhamad Aznil's parents, Bidin Yaacob, 54, and Haslina Hamzah, 50, said they were proud of their second child's achievements, adding that he had been interested in weightlifting since he was 13.
Meanwhile, the Kedah government is considering making Muhamad Aznil the state’s Merdeka Icon in conjunction with this year’s National Month’s celebrations.
State Information, Communications and Multimedia, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Wan Romani Wan Salin said it was to commemorate his Birmingham Games gold medal.
"It’s actually not easy for weightlifting, but this 28-year-old managed to bring glory to our country globally. It is a special honour for the country and our state in conjunction with the National Month.
"This youth icon should be an example for the current young generation, take the chance to achieve success for the glory of the country,” he told reporters here today.
Wan Romani had earlier presented a personal token of appreciation to Muhamad Aznil at his parents’ home in Kampung Baru, Bukit Pinang near Pokok Sena.
Meanwhile, Muhamad Aznil said he was very touched by the reception he got from everyone over his win.
-- BERNAMA
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