KUALA LUMPUR – Para long jump sensation Datuk Abdul Latiff Romly is setting his sights on an unprecedented fourth gold medal at the upcoming Para World Championships in Kobe, Japan, scheduled from May 17 to 25.
With the Paris Paralympic Games set to take place in August, Latiff sees this championship as a crucial stepping stone, aiming to harness the momentum to propel him towards further success on the global stage.
Since his dominant debut at the 2015 edition in Doha, Latiff has etched his name in the annals of para athletics, replicating his triumphs in London 2017 and Paris 2019. Now, he is poised to script another chapter in his illustrious career.
As he prepares to defend his title, Latiff is eyeing not only victory but also the opportunity to surpass his own world record of 7.64m set in Jakarta 2018. With a target set beyond 7.60m, he is poised to rewrite history once more.
“I’m gunning for gold at the World Championships, aiming to soar past the 7.6m or 7.7m mark. Every jump must exceed seven metres, and if I can shatter the world record again, that’s the cherry on top,” said Latiff.
However, amid his aspirations, Latiff remains mindful of the recurring groin issues that have hampered his performances in the past.
The Perlis born champion has faced nerve-wracking situations, notably during the final of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, when he was troubled by groin problems.
Despite this setback, he still managed to clinch the championship and bring home the gold with a jump of 7.45m.
A similar scenario unfolded during last year’s World Championships in Paris, where he competed in pain, resulting in jumps of only 7.40m.
Nonetheless, this performance was sufficient to crown him as champion and secure his qualification for the Paris Paralympic Games.”
“I have experienced groin problems twice, including during the World Championships last year in Paris, but I don’t want that issue to disrupt my focus. Every time I compete, I strive to deliver my best performance for my country.”
“I pray that God will ease my affairs and I won’t be afflicted with any injuries on my way to this year’s Paris Paralympic Games,” he added. – April 30, 2024