Singaporean Student, 18, Breaks Deadlift World Record at IPF World Championships

Overcoming Physical Setbacks and Competition Pressure on the World Stage

The record-breaking performance followed a turbulent start for the Singaporean teenager. During the early phases of the competition, one of Muhammad Hazrul’s squat attempts was disqualified for failing to reach the required depth, while severe cramps in his calves and arms struck during warm-ups. Following an opening 260kg deadlift attempt, he vomited due to the extreme physical strain.

Reflecting on the atmosphere, Muhammad Hazrul noted that the venue crowd and the scale of the live broadcast initially overwhelmed him. After failing his second attempt at the record weight, he capitalized on his final opportunity. The successful 273kg lift earned three white lights from the judges, securing the world record and cementing his second-place overall finish in his category with a total combined weight of 613kg, which included a 220kg squat and a 120kg bench press.

Balancing Studies, Gym Training, and Part-Time Employment

To sustain his athletic goals without relying on family finances, Muhammad Hazrul works part-time at an Anytime Fitness gym. Juggling his architectural technology and building services studies at Temasek Polytechnic alongside grueling training blocks and work shifts created immense personal pressure. He described the period leading up to the world championships as a lonely journey marked by rigorous dietary management and the elimination of social activities to avoid physical and mental burnout.

His entry into powerlifting began unexpectedly in 2022 after he failed to make his secondary school football team. Joining a gym to pass the time, a senior athlete noticed his potential and introduced him to his coach. Since entering competitive powerlifting in 2024, he has secured local podium finishes, won gold in the deadlift at the Asian championships, and finished second at the 2025 Singapore National Championships before earning his place at the 2026 world championships in South Africa.

Future Goals in Junior Competition

Following his record-setting performance in South Africa, Muhammad Hazrul intends to transition to the Junior Under-74kg category. He aims to secure the national championship title in that division while continuing to manage his academic commitments at Temasek Polytechnic and his employment schedule. His performance contributed to a successful outing for Singapore’s young delegation, which included six athletes aged 18 to 23 at the 2026 world championships.