Quah Jing Wen Sets New SEA Games Medal Record, eyes LA 2028 Olympics
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Singaporean swimmer Quah Jing Wen has cemented her legacy as the most decorated athlete in Southeast Asian Games history, surpassing all previous medal counts at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand.With 35 SEA Games medals too her name, she reflects on her achievement while already looking ahead to future competitions, including a potential fourth Olympic appearance at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/quah-jing-wen-sea-games-record-thailand-2023-13664466
Record-Breaking Performance and Future SEA Games
Quah’s recent success at the SEA Games has solidified her position as a dominant force in the region’s swimming scene. She acknowledges the significance of her record, stating that it’s a confirmation of her dedication to the sport. When asked about competing in the 2027 SEA Games in Malaysia, she indicated a willingness to return if she felt capable of further breaking her own record.
“I have a lot of pride in myself and my sport, so I feel like if I was a little bit off and there was the possibility to break that record, I think maybe yeah,” Quah said.
the 2025 SEA Games edition is ongoing and scheduled to wrap up on December 20th, leaving room for Quah to possibly increase her medal tally. She views each competition as a challenge, aiming to set an increasingly challenging benchmark for future athletes.
Focus Shifts to LA 2028
Despite the immediate focus on the 2025 SEA Games, Quah’s ambition extends to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Having missed qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics,she is motivated to compete in a fourth Olympic Games. https://www.todayonline.com/sports/swimming-quah-jing-wen-eyes-fourth-olympics-la-2028-after-sea-games-record
At 36 years old during the Games, Quah recognizes she won’t be the youngest competitor, but remains resolute. She also expressed a personal connection to Los Angeles, having attended school there.
“LA 28, I’ll be 36 years old. Not the oldest person to have swum at the olympic Games, but let’s get this meet over with first and than we’ll start planning for the next 2 years,” she stated. “I actually went to school in LA, so it might be a nice opportunity to go back and visit some old haunts and some good friends. It will be special in a way, going back to a second home.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Quah’s achievement surpasses that of any other Singaporean or Southeast Asian athlete in SEA Games history. She views her record not just as a personal accomplishment, but as a challenge to those who follow.
“Whatever number we end up at, the bigger the number, the bigger the challenge for the next person who wants to break it,” Quah concluded. “I’ll try my best to rise to the occasion and see what I got for the rest of the meet.”
Quah Jing Wen’s continued success is a testament to her dedication and talent. As she continues to compete, she inspires aspiring athletes throughout Southeast Asia and beyond. Her focus now remains on maximizing her performance at the ongoing 2025 SEA Games, while together laying the groundwork for a potential return to the Olympic stage in Los Angeles in 2028.
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