M’sian gymnastics queen Farah Ann announces retirement from sport

KUALA LUMPUR – National gymnastics queen Farah Ann Abdul Hadi has announced her retirement from the world of competitive gymnastics. 

According to her Instagram post, the 27-year-old gymnast says she is retiring on her own terms. 

Her name was not included in the list of athletes representing Malaysia at the SEA Games in Hanoi, Vietnam, which is set to take place from May 12-23.

“25 years ago, a little girl took a leap of faith and joined the crazy world of gymnastics. 

“Entranced with being a gymnast, I embarked on a journey that would ultimately become my greatest passion,” she said in her post. 

The seven-time SEA Games gold medallist thanked the world of gymnastics for affording her with lifelong memories and experiences that she would always treasure. 

“To all the people that I have met along the way, for all the guidance, love and support, thank you. 

“It’s been a ride of a lifetime, giving everything that I have, all my love, passion and dedication. 

“Now after 25 years in this sport, I am finally ready to say goodbye to being a competitive gymnast,” she said. 

Although Farah secured three gold medals in the uneven bars, floor exercise and all-around events at the 2019 SEA Games in the Philippines, the Selangor-born gymnast’s future was cast in doubt after she reportedly missed three weeks of training sessions. 

“Gymnastics will always be a part of me, as it will always be my passion and hopefully, I can give something back to the sport that has truly given me so much.

“I may be retiring as an athlete but I will always continue to be involved in the world of sports,” she said. – The Vibes, March 12, 2022