KUALA LUMPUR — National diver Nur Dhabitah is eager to prove her value to Malaysia’s diving squad, despite facing various setbacks this year.
Yesterday, she showcased her exceptional skills by winning three gold medals at the Malaysia Open Diving Championships held at the National Aquatic Centre in Bukit Jalil, marking her impressive return after a three-month absence from competitive events.
The 25-year-old diver has encountered numerous challenges and controversies throughout the year.
It began with a disappointing performance at the World Aquatics Championships in Doha last February, where she and her teammates, including Datuk Pandelela Rinong, failed to qualify for the Paris Olympics.
Upon her return, Dhabitah revealed conflicts within the coaching team and divers, which led to changes in the squad.
Although she managed a last-minute appearance at the Olympics, she returned without medals, prompting an extended break to address the pressures she had been facing.
“I’ve had plenty of rest, but my place is still in diving, in the pool, and now I’m back. My mental health, recovery, and physical condition are, so far, good. I’m glad to be back,” Dhabitah expressed.
“My husband, family, and the entire diving team, including my teammates and coaches, have supported me since day one, so stopping here would feel like a waste. I feel like I still have so much more to show until I have nothing left to give.”
At the championships, Dhabitah secured gold in the team event, the women’s 3-metre synchro with Ong Ker Ying, and the 3-metre mixed synchro event with Gabriel Gilbert Daim.
Dhabitah previously conveyed her concerns to the coaching team regarding the pressure of competing in multiple events. Moving forward, she hopes her request will be considered, allowing her to focus on her favorite event, the 3-metre springboard.
She also noted the promising chemistry with Ker Ying, despite this being their first time competing together.
“The positive outcome is that we managed to complete the synchronised dive together, even though we were initially uncertain about entering this event.
“I was concerned about (Ker Ying’s) injury, but we took a cautious approach. We managed to perform the synchronised dive for the first time, so with more practice, we hope to become stronger and more skilled in this event in the future,” she added. — November 5, 2024