Yupun Abeykoon retirement news shocks Sri Lankan athletics as the South Asian sprint champion announces an emotional farewell.
The Yupun Abeykoon retirement announcement has stunned Sri Lankan athletics, with the country’s leading sprint champion confirming his sudden departure from the sport.
Abeykoon revealed the unexpected decision through a special message on his official Facebook account. He acknowledged that he still had more time to compete. However, he said deciding to step away had not been easy.
The sprinter also indicated that he plans to speak openly about the reasons behind his decision. He suggested that his future discussions would address both his personal experiences and the wider condition of sport in Sri Lanka.
In his farewell message, Abeykoon stated:
“But finally, it came to a point where I had to make that decision. Let’s talk about why and what happened. Let’s talk about the current state of sports in Sri Lanka. There is much experience to share. See you in the next chapter.”
He then expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his athletics career. His complete Facebook statement carried an emotional message to the country, his family, supporters and sporting team.
Yupun Abeykoon Retirement Message to Sri Lanka
Abeykoon began his statement by writing:
“Leaving the sport without owing anything to the country, but owing to the world!”
He reflected on becoming the fastest runner in South Asia after breaking the 10-second barrier.
“I understood that being called the fastest runner in South Asia was not my achievement but our achievement, after the day I ran the sub-10. Until then, I thought it was a victory I had to achieve on my own.”
Abeykoon described the experience of becoming a national figure after beginning life as a boy belonging only to his home and family.
“For a boy to belong to his home and family and then become the property of an entire nation is a truly amazing and rare experience. A victory that cannot be taken by thieves and enemies from where it was. First of all, I express my gratitude to this life and to my country for giving me that experience.”
Fans Became Part of His Family
Abeykoon said his supporters became far more than ordinary fans during his journey.
“All of you were never just ordinary fans or supporters, all of you became my family. Throughout this journey, what I truly gained was only that love and strength.”
He thanked those who stayed awake to watch his races, lit lamps and prayed for his success. He said their support gave him immense strength throughout his career.
The sprinter also spoke about his responsibility to compete at his highest level. He said he had a duty to protect the public’s trust, resist the influence of money and maintain discipline without damaging the respect shown to him.
Abeykoon Thanks Family, Schools and Coaches
As he ended his athletics career, Abeykoon thanked the people who helped shape his journey.
“First, I thank my parents who brought me into this world and gave me life; I feel truly happy when they are so proud of me.”
He also thanked his family members and friends for their constant strength. In addition, he recognised the two schools that first introduced him to athletics.
Abeykoon expressed appreciation to all his coaches and his team in Italy. He said their contribution helped take his career to the highest level.
“Without them, my journey would not have reached this far.”
The Yupun Abeykoon retirement decision now closes a major chapter in Sri Lankan sprinting. However, his message suggests that another chapter may soon begin, including a wider discussion about his experiences and the state of sport in the country.
