Paralympics gold medalist Yip Pin Xiu thanks Singaporeans for overwhelming support

Yip Pin Xiu had something to say to her coaches, family and friends, as well as those who has been sending her messages of encouragement: Thank you for all the support you have shown. 

The para-swimmer, who successfully defended her gold medal in the Women’s 100m Backstroke S2 event on Wednesday (Aug 25), said that it was “emotional” to be on the podium and hear the Singapore national anthem playing. 

The 29-year-old finished with a timing of 2:16.61, after winning her heats with a timing of 2:14.61 earlier in the day. It was also the first time she has won back-to-back golds at the same event in the Paralympics. 

Speaking to the media via Zoom after the finals, Pin Xiu said: “It’s been a rough one-and-a-half, two years for everyone, not just myself… we have not been able to do things normally, but it’s about not giving up, not losing sight of the goal.

“The coaches and the team have been able to adapt to the situation and help me improve in training. I’m really grateful.” 

Reflecting on it being the first time she was able to defend her gold medal, Pin Xiu added: “A lot of hard work has been put into it. It’s been a rough year and it’s emotional. All along, Singaporeans have been supportive, especially in the last few days – there was a lot of outpour of love. Just being able to be on the podium and hear our national anthem play is emotional.” 

Pin Xiu also acknowledged that getting the first event out of the way has helped her to settle her nerves, although she added that nerves is something that all high-performance athletes have to deal with. 

With her next event, the Women’s 50m Backstroke 2 – which she also won in 2016 – just a few days away, Pin Xiu admitted there is no time to celebrate just yet. 

“The next few days will be crucial. I’m going to stick to my diet, sleep well, train well – there is no exception even though I have a title,” she said.