Joseph Schooling withdraws from the upcoming SEA games, Says “this was not an easy decision”

Joseph Schooling, Singapore’s first Olympic gold medal winner in 100m butterfly event at 2016 summer Olympics held in Brazil has withdrawn from upcoming SEA games.

Despite qualifying for the men’s 100m butterfly event and being eligible for the men’s 4x100m medley team, the Republic’s sole Olympic champion, Joseph Schooling, was not included in the Singapore Swimming Association’s (SSA) list of 22 athletes who will be participating in the upcoming Southeast Asian Games.

The list was released on Wednesday, indicating that Schooling will not be competing in the Games, which will be held in Phnom Penh from May 5-17.

Joseph Schooling won his Olympic gold medal in the 100m butterfly event at the 2016 Summer Olympics held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The race took place on August 12, 2016, and Schooling won with a time of 50.39 seconds, which was not only a personal best but also an Olympic record. Schooling’s victory was particularly significant as he beat swimming legend Michael Phelps, who finished in a three-way tie for second place with two other swimmers. It was Singapore’s first Olympic gold medal and a historic moment for Singaporean sports.

Joseph Schooling has won three Asian Games golds, a Commonwealth Games silver, and 29 titles at the SEA Games.

Here’s What He Said About His Withdrawal

“After careful consideration with my team, I have decided to pull out of the SEA Games. This was not an easy decision, but I am currently not at the level at which I hold myself to perform. Ultimately, my country comes first before individual accolades”.

“I have decided to give my spot to team mates who have been getting themselves ready and considered for selection while I cheer from home and focus on my Navy duties.”

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