In a statement on her social media pages yesterday, 4 January, Cheong said she accepts her recent failure with open arms.
“Since my second knee surgery in 2018, I had focused solely on my recovery and mustered the courage to get back on the diving platform with a view to do my very best at the Olympics (last year) despite the numerous obstacles,” she wrote.
“But I must admit that it was most regretful that I had not been able to perform ideally in the competition despite my best efforts.”
While she expressed that she had wanted to continue representing Malaysia, she has accepted the National Sports Council’s (NSC) decision to not renew her contract.
“I would, however, like to express my gratitude to NSC, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Olympic Council of Malaysia for their support throughout the years, as without them I would not be where I am today.”
She also thanked the National Sports Institute and all the doctors, rehabilitation physiotherapists, counsellors, and all other staff for their support and encouragement through every step of her career.