“Maybe (we can win gold medals) from the men’s and women’s singles, mixed doubles, men’s doubles or women's doubles,” he stated here on Friday (Jan 3).
Hidayat visited the Indonesian Badminton Association’s (PBSI's) national training center to give his support and inputs to athletes and coaches.
“Remember, the key to success is within yourself,” he told the athletes.
As a former World, Olympic, two-time Asian Games, and three-time Asian champion, Hidayat emphasized the importance of commitment, hard work, and responsibility of all stakeholders in restoring the glory of Indonesian badminton in the world.
The gold medalist from the 2004 Athens Olympics also remarked that achieving success as an athlete is not solely dependent on competitive experiences but is significantly influenced by a champion's mindset.
To this end, Hidayat underscored the need for training, matches, and programs to be designed with clear and measurable goals.
"You do not only belong to your coach or family but also to the people of Indonesia. Your achievements are the pride of the nation," Hidayat affirmed.
The legendary badminton player called on senior athletes to be role models for juniors by providing guidance, maintaining enthusiasm and discipline, as well as establishing good communication.
The Indonesian badminton team did not secure a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The only medal won by the team was a bronze, secured by women’s singles badminton player Gregoria Mariska Tunjung.
Related news: Indonesian badminton players vie for entry in BWF WTF
Related news: Government upgrades training centers for 2028 Olympic athletes
Related news: China Masters 2024: Indonesia's Christie finishes as runner-up
Translator: Fajar Satriyo, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
