After two decades in the sporting arena, the seasoned cyclist said he was taking a much-needed break following his participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“I am focused on resting, both physically and mentally.

“Normally, I would only rest physically, but this time, I’m also taking a break mentally. I have until the end of the year to come up with a new plan.

“The youth and sports ministry as well as the National Sports Council have always been supportive of my plans, and they want to discuss my future soon.

“I don’t want to rush into making a decision — it’s about the future, so I’ll take my time,” the Pocket Rocketman told reporters after the launch of CIMB’s “Kita Bagi Jadi” initiative here.

When asked about the possibility of joining the Road to Gold (RTG) programme for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, Azizulhasni acknowledged that the ministry and the sports council were hoping he would continue to be part of it.

Azizulhasni’s dream of winning Malaysia’s first Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games ended in heartbreak after he was disqualified in the first heat of the men’s keirin event.

The Malaysian team’s appeal against the disqualification, for overtaking the derny (motorised pacer) before it pulled off the track, was dismissed. The Paris Games was expected to be his last.