Azizulhasni targets sixth Olympics to seal career legacy at LA2028

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 — National track cycling star Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang has clarified that his pursuit of a spot in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games (LA2028) is focused on solidifying his career legacy, rather than seeking redemption for past disappointments. The 38-year-old cyclist, who aims for his sixth Olympic appearance, stated that he won't let himself get ahead of the game or rely on gold medal predictions, choosing to handle the situation "one step at a time" by concentrating on the qualification process.

Reflecting on the Paris 2024 Games, Mohd Azizulhasni emphasized that his goal now is to provide his career with a fitting conclusion on his own terms. "But I think if you ask me, now the Olympics is about sealing my legacy. My sixth edition, hopefully. And I am seeking the best closure possible, whatever the result," he told reporters.

He elaborated on his decision to return from retirement, mentioning a lingering sense of unfinished business after being unable to demonstrate his full potential in Paris. "In Paris, I could not race properly, could not express my true performance. That’s why after I decided to retire, every day I woke up with a sense of unfinished business.

That’s why I made a comeback," he added. Regarding his training plans since his former coach John Beasley's departure, Mohd Azizulhasni revealed that he has been independently managing his workouts in Melbourne since undergoing heart surgery. However, he acknowledged that an Olympic campaign requires a supportive team. "To go to the Olympics, of course you can’t do it alone.

I still need a team to back me up," he noted, adding that he is currently reaching out to potential corporate sponsors to assemble a professional campaign by December. Earlier, Mohd Azizulhasni received approximately RM180,000 under the National Sports Incentive Scheme (SHAKAM) for his gold medals from the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.

He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, National Sports Council, National Sports Institute, and the Malaysian National Cycling Federation, urging young athletes to consider incentives as external motivation while prioritizing national pride and achievements.