Latif sets sights on LA 2028 ticket

KUALA LUMPUR: Para long jumper Latif Romly will have an important mission next year - secure his place at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.

The two-time Paralympic gold medallist said he hopes to secure an early ticket to LA 2028 with a strong performance at the World Championships in Tashkent on June 19-27.

"There are two tournaments I will be prioritising next year - the world championships as well as the Asean Para Games (October 17-23)," said Latif on Tuesday.

"My training programme will remain roughly the same and my goal is to peak at the world championships.

"I need to win gold or silver (in Tashkent) to secure my place at LA 2028 on merit."

Latif has been in strong form this season. He clinched gold in the men's long jump T20 event at both the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games this year.

It earned him RM160,000 in incentives via the National Sports Incentive Scheme (Shakam). The Shakam presentation ceremony was held on Tuesday.

"I am grateful for the incentives. It definitely gives me added motivation for my upcoming competitions," he said.

Latif, 29, is also a five-time world championship gold medallist and remains the world record holder in the event.