Liek Hou wins Malaysia’s first gold medal at Paris 2024 Paralympics

KUALA LUMPUR: National para badminton champion Cheah Liek Hou has lived up to expectations by securing Malaysia’s first gold medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics earlier today.

According to Berita Harian, the 36-year-old player clinched the gold after defeating Indonesia’s Suryo Nugroho in the SU5 (physical impairment) final at the Porte de La Chapelle Arena.

Liek Hou demonstrated his status as an eight-time world champion by effortlessly overcoming Suryo with scores of 21-13, 21-15 in just 41 minutes.

This victory allows Liek Hou, coached by Nova Armada, to retain the gold he won at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics three years ago.

As soon as he stepped onto the court, the gold was virtually within Liek Hou’s grasp, having previously defeated Suryo in the group stage.

Playing as the tournament’s top seed, Liek Hou completely dominated the first set, putting pressure on his opponent and causing numerous unforced errors before winning 21-13.

Although Suryo attempted to mount a challenge in the second set to force a decider, Liek Hou remained focused and finished the match with a 21-15 win.

This gold medal victory entitles Liek Hou to a reward of RM1 million under the Sports Achievement Prize Scheme (SHAKAM).