SHAH ALAM – National para shot putter Ziyad Zolkefli might sit out the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand as he wants to give way to new talents.
He said that it is time for others to take on the responsibility of winning medals for the country.
The 35-year-old athlete, who competes in the T20 (intellectual disability) classification, has three world championships to his name.
Speaking to reporters after the Chery car presentation ceremony, Ziyad said that he aims to focus on other tournaments for the rest of the year.
“To be honest, for this year’s SEA Games, I have no plans and would prefer not to participate as I want to give opportunities to new faces. The tournament schedule for this year is too hectic, and I need to focus fully on those events, as they are even more prestigious.
“I have already competed in four SEA Games editions, and I have seen it all. It’s time for me to take a break from that competition,” Ziyad said during a press conference earlier today.
The 33rd edition of the SEA Games is scheduled to take place from December 7-19.
He will, however, compete in the 2025 ASEAN Para Games (APG), scheduled to take place in January next year.
“The next tournament I am focusing on is the World Grand Prix in Morocco in April, which will take place right after Hari Raya this year. Additionally, I have the World Championship in September in New Delhi, India, and I hope to get enough rest and come out strong, aiming to win more medals for the nation.
“So far, there are no plans for me to train abroad, as my coach has said that all training will be held at the National Sports Council (NSC) facilities. Therefore, I will make sure to train hard and give my 100%,” Ziyad added.
For the record, Ziyad has won one silver (2010 Philippines) and three bronze medals (2017 Kuala Lumpur, 2021 Hanoi, and 2023 Phnom Penh) for Malaysia in his last four appearances at the SEA Games. – January 21, 2025