Bonnie Bunyau Gustin, Malaysia's flag bearer for the opening ceremony of the Paris Paralympics, has once again made his nation proud. Competing in the Mens 72kg Paralympic powerlifting category, Bonnie not only defended his gold medal but also shattered his own world record, securing Malaysia's second gold medal at the Games.
The 25-year-old powerhouse began his campaign with a commanding lift of 221kg in his first attempt an effort that no competitor could match. Bonnie then upped the ante, lifting 226kg in his second attempt. But it was his third and final lift that left the world in awe, as he successfully hoisted an astonishing 232kg, breaking his previous world record and cementing his place at the top of the podium.
Chinas Hu Peng claimed the silver medal with a lift of 214kg, while Italys Donato Telesca took home the bronze after lifting 213kg.
Bonnies remarkable 232kg lift surpassed his own world record of 231kg, which he had set at the 2023 Dubai World Championships. He also holds the Paralympic record of 228kg, achieved at the Tokyo 2020 Games, where he first captured gold.
This latest triumph in Paris marks a triumphant return for Bonnie to the top of the Paralympic powerlifting world and solidifies his reputation as one of the greatest athletes in the sport. His victory not only brings glory to Malaysia but also inspires countless fans and aspiring athletes around the world.
