Read about this incredible athlete's story of resilience and determination leading up to the SEA Games after tearing her ACL in June 2020
Bringing the best of the region together, the SEA Games is one of the sporting events that every athlete looks forward to every two years. Last year, the highly-anticipated competition was postponed due to pandemic restrictions. After a delay of six months, it will finally be resuming with an opening ceremony in Hanoi on May 12.
The road to the SEA Games has been particularly long and difficult for Malaysian sprinter Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli too, as she raced to recover from surgery for a painful ACL knee surgery in order to qualify for the Games. The 28-year-old athlete and Under Armour ambassador sits down with Tatler to recount her experiences overcoming adversity. She also shares her goals at the Games where she will be running the 100m and 200m sprints as well as the 4 x 100m relay.
See also: SEA Games 2022: Malaysian Swimmer Welson Sim is Going for Gold
Tell us more about your journey leading up to the SEA Games.
It has been a tough journey to the SEA Games for me. I had to undergo a knee surgery, leaving me with only eight months to train. I set a goal, decided to focus my efforts on training, and tried at all costs to prevent further injuries. My efforts paid off because I got my running rhythm back and qualified to represent Malaysia in this year's Games.
I am grateful that I managed to get my running rhythm back and qualify for the SEA Games after my knee surgery.