Kuala Lumpur:National sprinter Muhammad Azeem Mohd Fahmi is facing uncertainty regarding his participation in the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games following muscle cramps that led him to finish eighth in the men's 100m final.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azeem experienced cramps during the race and is awaiting further examination results before deciding on his involvement in the remaining events. He is scheduled to compete in the men's 4x100m relay tomorrow and the mixed 4x100m relay next Monday.
Despite the setback, Azeem expressed his hope to continue representing Malaysia at the Games, sharing on Instagram his intention to undergo further medical examinations in hopes that the injury is not serious. In the 100m final, Azeem slowed down due to the cramps, completing the race in 14.65 seconds and subsequently receiving medical attention.
Previously, Azeem claimed a bronze medal at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games with a time of 10.11 seconds. In the recent race, Thailand's Puripol Boonson won the gold medal with an Asian Games record of 9.90 seconds, while Oman's Ali Al Balushi and Malham Al Balushi took silver and bronze, respectively, with times of 10.04 seconds and 10.11 seconds.
Reflecting on the situation, Azeem shared his belief that "everything happens for a reason" and acknowledged the challenges athletes face with injuries, expressing confidence in a better plan ahead.