Taufik Hidayat, the deputy sports minister, has outlined a routemap for the Indonesian badminton players, envisioning them to improve their gold medal haul across categories at LA 2028.
Indonesia’s Anthony Sinisuka Ginting (Tokyo 2020) and Gregoria Mariska Tunjung (Paris 2024) won a bronze medal each at the last two editions of the Olympic Games while the men’s doubles pair of Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan were the last to clinch a gold at Beijing 2008.
Hidayat, himself, was the last men’s singles player to clinch an Olympic gold at Athens 2004.
“Maybe (we can win gold medals) from the men’s and women’s singles, mixed doubles, men’s doubles or women’s doubles,” Hidayat said.
He was visiting the Indonesian Badminton Association’s (PBSI’s) national training center to encourage the coaches and athletes.
“Remember, the key to success is within yourself,” he told the athletes, underlining the importance of commitment, hard work, and responsibility of all stakeholders in restoring the glory of Indonesian badminton.
“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.
He called on the senior players to be a role model to the juniors by providing guidance, maintaining enthusiasm and discipline, and establishing good communication.