NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Jan 23 — Malaysia won two gold medals in table tennis in the men’s and women’s singles events at ASEAN Para Games Thailand (APG) here today.
Jennatul Fahmi Ahmad Jennah claimed the men’s singles TT11 gold medal with a composed and mature performance to defeat host representative Sompom Tampettom 3-1 in the final. The bronze went to Ridwonullah of Indonesia.
In the women’s singles TT10 event, Gloria Gracia delivered gold for the country after overcoming Indonesia’s Sella Dwi Radayana 3-2, with the bronze shared by Juliani Cici (Indonesia) and Intira Chapandung (Thailand).
For Gloria, the victory was particularly meaningful as it redeemed her disappointment at APG Cambodia 2023, where she had to settle for silver after losing to the same opponent.
“I needed to have a big heart to win that match. This time I felt I wasn’t fighting alone, but carrying the support of the whole of Malaysia. That’s what made the fear inside me disappear.
“There have been so many sacrifices to reach this level, especially since I am a full-time student. I have to manage my time between training, studies and family. Time with my family is very limited, but their support has always been my strength,” said the 22-year-old athlete from Kuching.
Commenting on the final, Gloria said she had to change her strategy after her opponent began to adapt to her playing style, before regaining control in the deciding set through calmness and tactical discipline instilled by her coach.
Jennatul Fahmi described his gold medal triumph as the result of lessons learned from an early defeat in the group stage, as well as his ability to control pressure during crucial matches.
“Losing in the group stage made me realise not to play emotionally. In the final, I played more relaxed, controlled the ball and waited for my opponent’s mistakes. Pressure has often been a problem for me, but once I managed to control it, the game became easier,” said the 25-year-old athlete from Kota Bharu.
Competing in his fourth APG, he admitted that the mental aspect remains a challenge that needs improvement, but said his success in Nakhon Ratchasima this time has proven his maturity as an experienced player.
