Olympian Rouxin stuns swimming fraternity with Malaysia Open no-show

New Straits Times

04-05-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Olympian Tan Rouxin's absence from last month's Malaysia Open has sparked confusion within the swimming fraternity.
Rouxin, who won the 200m individual medley at the same meet last year, did not feature in any event during the four-day competition.
When contacted, Malaysia Aquatics (MAS) vice-president Marilyn Chua revealed the decision was reached after discussions between Rouxin and national coach Eric Anderson prior to the meet.
"After the discussion, Rouxin agreed to sit out the Malaysia Open," said Marilyn.
"From the association's side, we will engage with Rouxin and her coaches to better understand the full context of the situation."
The development has raised concerns, as the Johor-born swimmer is widely regarded as one of the brightest young stars in the national team.
Rouxin burst onto the scene at the 2022 Malaysia Games, where she claimed six gold medals as a 16-year-old.
Last year, MAS selected her to fill one of the two universality quota spots for the Paris Olympics, entering her in the 100m breaststroke.
In Paris, Rouxin, who turns 19 in July, won her preliminary heat in 1:12.50s but placed 33rd out of 37 swimmers, missing out on the semi-finals.
However, she bounced back in stunning fashion by becoming the first Malaysian in 35 years to win a medal at a Swimming World Cup event.
She won bronze in the 400m individual medley at the Shanghai leg of the short-course meet in October, clocking 4:55.27 — just 0.79s off her own national record of 4:54.48.