Paris, France, August 4, 2024: Malaysia’s Deputy Chef de Mission at Paris 2024 has sent a heartfelt message to the badminton women’s doubles team of Pearly Tan and Muralitharan Thinaah after they missed out on a medal.
The unseeded Malaysian pair lost their bronze medal match to Japan’s Nami Matsuyama and Chiharu Shida 21-11, 21-11 on Saturday, August 3 at La Chapelle Arena.
This defeat followed an energy-sapping loss in the semi-finals the previous day to China’s top seeds Chen Qingchen and Jia Yifan by 21-12, 18-21, 21-15 in 78 minutes.
Deputy CDM Nicol David, the retired squash legend, wrote a person letter to the pair.
“I wish I could say something that could lift your spirits, but I know all too well losing is painful. I wish there were wise words I could say, but I know nothing I can do will change the sorrow you both are feeling right now.
“I saw it in your eyes when the match ended, and I knew exactly that heartbreaking feeling of defeat. I know what that feels like and it’s a pain one can struggle to let go.”
Looking back on the semifinal against the Chinese pair, Nicol adds: “The semifinal was brutal and you both put everything you had out there, everything to reach that final and poured yourselves out. I know that feeling of just pushing so hard and having nothing left, but nonetheless you persevered and still fought your last match.”
Nicol described their journey as “absolutely beautiful” and “amazing”.
“When your match ended, you both crossed the court and hugged your opponents with love and kindness. That act said it all to me - it was gracious, humble and beautiful because, in your darkest moment, you were a better person; you both showed what true sportsmanship is all about and that moment will forever define you.
“You both are LEGENDS because you showed Malaysia and the world what values you two are made of, and I for one can’t be more proud.
“I love you girls, and I hope we can cry together, laugh together and remember this as a victory forever in our hearts and mind.”