KUALA LUMPUR: Track cycling great Azizulhasni Awang is still struggling to come to terms with being disqualified in the first round of the men's keirin at the Paris Olympics on Saturday.
Though four days have already passed, Azizulhasni said he remains deeply affected by what happened having sacrificed a lot to reach the starting line in Paris in the form of his life.
The 36-year-old's road to Paris had been challenging. He underwent open heart surgery to correct a coronary artery anomaly in April 2022 and had to undergo a lengthy recovery process.
"I can't find the words to describe how I felt at the time (Saturday). I never thought something like this would happen," said Azizulhasni on social media today.
"I came to Paris full of hope and was on an important mission (to win gold) for my beloved country.
"Some have said that there were too many expectations on my shoulders which caused me to lose control. That is not true, everything was at the correct dose.
"My mother, my wife and my children had all asked me to retire after my surgery but I remember promising them that this (Paris) would be my final appearance at the Olympics.
"I thought to myself, has this all happened because I turned down their request?
"They have always been my source of strength and with their support I have been able to become one of the best riders in the world.
"Islam has taught us to accept and be at peace with fate. Whatever happens in this world has long been decided on even before we were created. Allah is the best planner."
Azizulhasni, who returned to Malaysia yesterday, disclosed that long-time coach John Beasley and teammate Shah Firdaus Sahrom have asked him to reconsider retiring and continue for another Olympic cycle until Los Angeles 2028.
The Dungun-born, however, said he needs time to rest and discuss this with his family.
Azizulhasni's keirin campaign in Paris came to an early end after he was disqualified in his opening round heat for overtaking the derny before it left the track.
It was a massive blow to the nation's medal hopes as Azizulhasni had been earmarked as a potential gold medallist in the event.