Indonesia is set to make history at the Paris Olympics with the participation of Rifda Irfanaluthfi, the nation’s first-ever gymnast to qualify for the Games.
At 24 years old, Rifda’s journey began with swimming before she transitioned to gymnastics at the tender age of six. Hailing from Jakarta, she has amassed an impressive tally of 13 SEA Games medals, including four golds, and secured a silver medal at the 2018 Asian Games.
Rifda earned her spot in Paris through her stellar performance at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Belgium last year. Competing across all events—vault, floor, uneven bars, and balance beam—she showcased her versatility and skill. However, a sharp landing on the uneven bars led to a knee injury, requiring surgery and sidelining her for two years.
Now, fully recovered, Rifda is diligently preparing for the Paris Games. Reflecting on her journey, she shares, \"Sometimes I do compare myself to others. Other athletes are brilliant, and I'm not. I do still think like that sometimes, but I would tell myself that I can do that too, I'm also capable. For this Olympics, my target isn't a gold medal, so I should be more composed.\"
Rifda’s determination and resilience serve as an inspiration to young athletes across Indonesia and beyond, highlighting the spirit of perseverance needed to compete on the world stage.
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Indonesia's first Olympic gymnast gears up for spin in Paris
cgtn.com