AHMAD Amsyar Azman, regarded as one of the nation’s best male divers in the past decade, has retired from competitive diving.
The 27-year-old, who submitted his letter to the national body recently, is believed to have received treatment for depression.
The Amateur Swimming Union of Malaysia (Asum) disclosed that they made a joint decision with the National Sports Council (NSC) to accept Amsyar’s resignation and to not renew his contract with the national elite squad due to his medical condition.
He has not been part of the national squad’s training regime for some time. His last major assignment in national colours was at last year’s Indonesia Asian Games.
Deputy Sports Minister Steven Sim said his ministry will look into supporting Amsyar if he really has set his mind on retiring.
“I think it is best (for me) to discuss with him and the NSC to know what his status is,” said Steven in Putrajaya yesterday.
“If his decision is final then as an athlete who has contributed a lot to the country, we are ready to support him start a new chapter.
“There are various educational and health schemes available for former athletes.”
The Perlis-born diver is a four-time Sea Games gold medallist. His most memorable result was winning silver in the 3m springboard synchro with Ooi Tze Liang at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games.
Amsyar also competed in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.