Nigerian weightlifter Sarah Matthew has delivered one of the most inspiring stories of resilience at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in Ahmedabad, India.
Despite a serious illness that nearly ruled her out, she won two gold medals and claimed the prestigious Best Junior Athlete award.
Read Also: NPFL: Remo Stars Bounce Back to Secure First Win of the Season Away From Home Against Kun Khalifat
Matthew revealed in a heartfelt Facebook post that she fell gravely ill just two weeks before the competition.
Her condition deteriorated days before her scheduled event, leaving her uncertain about even stepping on stage.
“Falling seriously sick, fighting for my life just two weeks before the competition was tough. When I thought I was recovering, it got worse,” she wrote.
The young athlete admitted she had little confidence in her ability to compete.
“I didn’t even trust myself enough to perform well because I was not in good condition,” she added.
Against these challenges, Matthew surprised herself and the weightlifting community. She clinched gold in both the junior and senior categories, proving her grit and determination.
Even more remarkably, she was crowned the Best Junior Athlete of the entire championship.
“Though my performance was far from my best, I’m grateful it was good enough to win,” she said, reflecting on the achievement.
Matthew dedicated her success to the strong network of support around her. She expressed appreciation to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Sheu Dikko, the Director-General and former Ogun State Sports Commissioner Bukola Olopade.
She also thanked Nigeria Weightlifting Federation President Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, the secretary, board members, and fellow athletes for standing by her.
Her special gratitude went to the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Anaje, the founder of the Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim Foundation, and her coach Aduche Ojadi, whom she described as pillars of encouragement throughout her recovery.
“I would not have done this alone. I’ll forever be grateful,” she concluded.
Sarah Matthew’s story serves as a reminder that true champions rise, not when everything is perfect, but when they find strength in adversity.
