Criticism Of Menpora And Jokowi Regarding Injury Handling, Gymnast Rifda Irfanaluthfi: It's Time For Me To Become A Therapist & Masseur For Myself

JAKARTA - Indonesian gymnast Rifda Irfanaluthfi criticized the government regarding the handling of athlete's injuries. The government is considered bogged down in this matter.

Rifda put the criticism on social media Instagram on Monday, June 13. He targeted Menpora Zainudin Amali and President Joko Widodo.

In her upload, Rifda said the government should be more nimble in dealing with injury problems when athletes participate in multi-pronged or single events. The absence of a therapist or masseur accompanying athletes at international events makes athletes have to handle their own injuries.

"Cook, I'm an athlete who focuses on competing for points to get to the Olympics, but I'm also the therapist + masseur for myself, I also bought the equipment," Rifda wrote in Instagram Stories.

The 1999-born athlete is currently in Doha, Qatar, for the 2022 Asian Gymnastics Championships. The championship will take place from 15 to 18 June.

From her post in video format, it is known that Rifda made preparations for the event by undergoing therapy without experts. In fact, experts are needed to maintain the health of athletes who are so vital.

"At least every time you compete in a big event, whether it's a multi-event, or a single event, bring one therapist for one sport," he continued.

"Because health is a valuable asset to support the success of athletes. It's a shame the athletes have tried their best, but the government has not supported it in terms of handling injuries," he added.

Rifda is one of the most potential gymnast athletes. He is the winner of two gold medals and one bronze medal in the Hanoi 2022 SEA Games which just finished last May.