SHAH ALAM - National track cycling champion Datuk Azizulhasni Awang is still deeply affected by the bitter experience of having his participation disqualified during the first round of the keirin event at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
According to Azizulhasni, he feels guilty for disappointing the high expectations of everyone and apologises for failing to bring home the gold medal.
"Throughout the preparation process and the journey to Paris, I always maintained a positive outlook, envisioning that the finale in Paris would be a sweet story for Malaysia and especially for my career.
"However, I am also at a loss for words with such an ending. I cannot find the words to describe the feelings I experienced at that moment.
"I never imagined that something like this would happen. I went to Paris full of hope and with a crucial mission for my beloved country.
"Perhaps some might say that the expectations were too high and too great, causing me to lose control. Not at all; everything was within the right dose," he said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.
In the Olympic event, Azizulhasni, also known as The Pocket Rocketman, had his participation disqualified after being detected overtaking the pacer before the pacer exited the track.
Additionally, he wondered if the incident might be a consequence of breaking promises to his mother, wife and children.
"I remember the promises made to my mother, wife and children that this would be my last Olympic appearance, as they all requested for me to retire after recovering from heart surgery.
"I wonder if all of this is happening because I went against their wishes. From the beginning of my career until now, they have been my source of strength, enabling me to continue my struggle and become one of the best in the world," he said.
He also expressed gratitude for the many people who have always supported him directly and indirectly.
"Once again, I apologise to everyone and continue to give full support to our athletes in the future," he said.