Naufal Takdir Al Bari, an Indonesian men’s gymnast tipped as a contender for the LA 2028 Olympic Games, died following a training accident in Penza, Russia.
The 19-year-old fell into a foam pit during a high bar routine, Russian staff told state media. He remained in intensive care for 12 days before passing away from his injuries.
The Indonesian gymnastics federation said he had been preparing for this year’s Artistic Gymnastics World Championships, and was touted as a candidate for Olympic qualification in 2028.
“[Al Bari] was a talented young athlete and a good person. Indonesian gymnastics has lost one of the nation’s finest sons. This is a deep blow and sorrow for us,” said Ita Yuliati, Chair of Indonesian Gymnastics. “May the family be given strength.”