In the men’s recurve solo event of Asia Cup Stage-2, Bangladesh archer Abdur Rahman Alif defeated Japanese archer Miyata Gakuto 6-4 in the gold-deciding match hosted in Singapore on Friday.
After winning the first two sets by 28-27 and 29-28 respectively, Alif made a lucky start by leading 4-0. The Japanese archer then produced a remarkable come back to tie the set points at 4-4.
Alif maintained his nerve cool to win 29-26, earning his first international solo medal with the gold. The match went into the fifth and decisive set.
Alif stated it’s rather amazing to win first international gold on foreign ground.
“It’s a great feeling to me because this the first time I have able to hear the national anthem in the foreign soil after winning the first gold in international competition,” he remarked in his initial response to his victory.
Enquired as to his next aim. The archer stated his sole goal would now be to remain ahead and medal in the Olympics; he is preparing in line with the coach.
Alif also asked the archery organisation to arrange more team tournaments.
“More competitions are needed to improve team’s performance since if the federation organise more competition for the team, the world ranking of the team would be improved and the chance of qualify in Olympics would be brightening.” he stated.