A Champion Still Waiting for Recognition

Abdulla Aboobacker triple jump championed India to medals at the Commonwealth Games 2022 and Asian Athletics Championships 2023. Yet, despite his heroics, recognition from his home state Kerala remains scarce. As he chases qualification for the 2025 World Athletics Championships, questions grow louder: Why does one of India’s best triple jumpers remain underappreciated at home?

From Nadapuram to the World Stage

Born in Nadapuram, Kozhikode, Abdulla’s journey was shaped by sacrifice. His father worked abroad in a Gulf cafeteria to support the family, while his mother, Sara, described how she wept watching his Commonwealth silver medal performance. Supported quietly by siblings Muhammed and Safna, Abdulla moved to Palakkad at 14 to join a sports hostel. There, under dedicated coaching, he chose triple jump in 2012, setting the foundation for a decorated career.


Career Highlights and Personal Bests

Personal Best: 17.19 m (Indian Grand Prix 3, May 2025)

Commonwealth Games 2022: Silver medal, Birmingham

Asian Athletics Championships 2023: Gold medal

Recent Performance: Gold at the XXXIV Qosanov Memorial 2025 with a 16.08 m jump

These milestones underline his consistency, even as his peers Eldhose Paul and Praveen Chithravel also shine for India.


Kerala’s Forgotten Champion

Despite delivering medals, Abdulla has often spoken about the lack of recognition in Kerala. After his Asian gold, he said:
“Athletes from other states who won medals received crores. We expected at least a nominal prize and a word of appreciation from Kerala sports authorities. But that didn’t happen.”

Also read : Commonwealth Games medalists Eldhose Paul and Abdulla Aboobacker to move out of Kerala

This silence forced both Abdulla and Eldhose Paul to consider leaving Kerala in search of financial support and respect. Though he was later honored with the Jimmy George Award 2024, many saw it as too little, too late.


Upcoming Battles on the Track

With a 17.22 m qualification mark required for the World Athletics Championships, Abdulla’s 17.19 m jump in Bengaluru has kept his hopes alive. His recent Qosanov Memorial win adds confidence, but he must deliver in upcoming Continental Tour meets before the August 27 deadline.

The big question: Can he convert form into a career-defining global appearance?


Expert Voices on Aboobacker’s Journey

Athletics commentators believe Abdulla’s resilience stands out. One analyst noted:
“Aboobacker’s consistency, despite limited recognition, speaks volumes about his discipline. India must ensure such talent does not feel ignored.”

Even his coach has praised his work ethic, saying Abdulla’s biggest strength is his refusal to let setbacks define him.

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Running Against Time and Silence

Abdulla Aboobacker remains India’s unsung triple jump star, a medal winner chasing qualification, recognition, and respect. As he prepares for his final events before the World Championships cutoff, one thing is clear: India cannot afford to let Kerala’s forgotten champion slip through the cracks.