Don Opeloge, Samoa’s 25-year-old weightlifting sensation, faced a tough challenge in his Olympic debut in the 102kg event.
Despite high hopes, Opeloge was unable to advance to the clean and jerk after three unsuccessful attempts in the snatch.
“I’ll be back stronger,” Opeloge vowed, reflecting on his experience at the Olympic Games.
“I can’t put into words how I’m feeling right now.
“I am very sorry,” he said.
Opeloge previously won gold in the 96kg event at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and silver in the men’s 85kg at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast.
While the outcome was not what he had hoped for, Opeloge is determined to train harder.
“I will never forget this experience, but it is what it is,” he remarked.
He apologised to the people of Samoa, his family, and his coaching staff for the unexpected performance.
“I was feeling strong.
“Everything was okay during my warm-up.
“I just don’t know what happened, and I’m sorry,” Opeloge explained.
After missing out on the clean and jerk, Opeloge expressed his gratitude to his team, his family, and the people of Samoa for their unwavering support.
