Singapore Skips Abu Dhabi World Swim Championships
In a swift twist of fate, Singapore has pulled out of the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) in Abu Dhabi after four of its 14 swimmers tested positive for COVID‑19. These athletes are now in a separate hotel, waiting on the results of a second PCR test for confirmation.
Who’s In Trouble?
- Teong Tzen Wei – world‑class SEA Games medalist
- Pang Sheng Jun – seasoned competitor
- Darren Chua – Olympic hopeful
- Maximillian Ang – fast newcomer
- Nur Marina Chan – rising star
- Amanda Lim – strong contender
- Quah Jing Wen – versatile talent
What’s Happening with the Team?
The squad flew into Dubai on December 12, cleared the pre‑departure test, and arrived in Abu Dhabi the next day for the short‑course championships (Dec 16‑21). While three of the four swimmers are asymptomatic, one is dealing with a cough, fever, and a loss of smell and taste—yet no medical treatment is required.
SSA is keeping tight tabs on the situation, offering support to the swimmers, their families, and liaising with authorities. They’re arranging safe travel for the remaining team to return home, while Sonya Porter will stay in Abu Dhabi to care for the affected athletes and fly back once clearance is granted.
Covid‑Drama Hits the Championships
Fina President Husain Al‑Musallam announced that seven nations have already pulled out due to the Omicron wave. South Africa’s 21‑swimmer squad was pared down to just four after a travel ban, losing big names like Chad Le Clos and Michaela Pulford. Italy’s Fabio Scozzoli is also out, currently in quarantine after a positive test.
Other Sports Takeaways
Even the Lion Nation’s football squad isn’t immune: last month, Hariss Harun and Hafiz Nor tested positive, but both have since bounced back and joined the team for the AFF Suzuki Cup in Singapore.
With health and safety front and centre, Singapore’s decision underscores just how fragile international competitions can be when a virus keeps on the down‑low.
