Adeola is the future of Malaysian karate, says coach

KUALA LUMPUR: National karate coach R. Sharmendran has praised 20-year-old Adeola Fay Robert as the promising future of Malaysian karate after her gold medal win at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Adeola clinched victory against Iran's Fatemeh Zahra Saeidabadi in the women's under-55kg kumite final with a score of 6-4, showcasing a remarkable performance.

Sharmendran highlighted Adeola's unwavering dedication over the past two and a half years, emphasizing how she managed to balance rigorous training with her studies at the Teacher Education Institute (IPG) while simultaneously undergoing a rapid exposure process on the big stage. He expressed gratitude for Adeola's ability to adapt to her studies, acknowledging that it was all due to her hard work.

Although winning now brings immense pressure, Sharmendran views it as a natural part of an athlete's journey. Some athletes are expected to bear the responsibility earlier, while others do so later in their careers. Sharmendran expressed his belief in Adeola's potential for future achievements, stating that he is confident she will continue to make strides in the coming years. He firmly believes that Adeola is the future of national karate, vowing to support her in her endeavors.