Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's weightlifting stalwart, Eko Yuli Irawan, expressed deep regret over failing to secure a medal in the men's 61kg category at the 2024 Paris Olympics at the South Paris Arena on Wednesday due to recent injuries.In a statement released by the Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI), Irawan apologized to the nation for falling short of the podium.
Despite giving his all, he was unable to overcome challenges in both the snatch and clean and jerk lifts.
"I apologize to all Indonesian people for not being able to win a medal. However, I gave it my all until the very end," he said.
Hindered by a lingering knee injury and a more recent thigh issue, he admitted to competing below peak physical condition. While the team doctor confirmed the injuries were not severe, Irawan's performance was undoubtedly affected.
"I've had a knee problem since last year and a right thigh injury for the past month," he said.
During the snatch, he failed his first attempt at 135kg, but succeeded in the second. His third attempt at 139kg was unsuccessful. Meanwhile, he failed all three attempts in the clean and jerk, with a maximum weight of 165kg. After failing his final attempt, he fell and grabbed his right thigh.
The Indonesian team's doctor, Andhika Raspati, confirmed that Irawan's right thigh injury was not severe and that he was able to walk despite limping after the competition.
"Eko said he had a problem with his right thigh, which has been an issue for about a month. We offered to take him by ambulance, but he refused. His condition is not critical; he can still walk," the doctor said.
Indonesia's chef de mission for the Olympics, Anindya Bakrie, commended Irawan's unwavering effort and acknowledged the athlete's illustrious career, which includes four Olympic medals across five Games.
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He won bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics, silver at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, and silver again at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
On Wednesday, China's Li Fabin lifted a total of 310kg to clinch gold, while Theerapong Silachai defended his 303kg total lift from US lifter Morris Hampton's last attempt to earn silver for Thailand.