GEORGE TOWN: Young Muaythai athlete from the Penang Muay Association, Muhammad Aliff Mohd Azizi, 15, never thought his maiden participation in the World Muaythai Championships in Bangkok, Thailand would lead to two gold medals.
He said initially, the plan was to gain some experience in the world-class tournament where athletes from 60 countries were participating.
“I never expected it, but with the spirit and encouragement of my family, the trainers and other parties involved, we managed to achieve this,” Muhammad Aliff told reporters at a press conference here Wednesday.
Earlier, Muhammad Aliff, who returned home with other Muaythai athletes from Penang, Perlis, Perak and Kedah, were greeted at the Penang International Airport by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s political secretary Abu Bakar Yahya, State Youth and Sports Executive Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee and representatives of the respective Muay associations.
Muhammad Alif’s brother, Muhammad Adam Mohd Azizi, 17 also brought home a silver medal in the 54-57 kg category. – Bernama
