15-Year-Old Weightlifter Breaks World Record, Indonesia Has New Rising Star

Massive stage pressure didn't stop Delima Yunia Susanti. At 15 years old, she instead set a World Record internationally at the 2026 World Para Powerlifting Asia-Oceania Open Championship.

The tournament held in Thailand from April 7-12 tested Asia and Oceania's finest athletes.

Indonesia sent 12 representatives, but the spotlight immediately focused on one uncompromising debutant.

Delima didn't just compete – she dominated the competition.

She secured four Gold Medals in best lift rookie open, best lift rookie Asia, total lift rookie open, and total lift rookie Asia categories.

Such dominance rarely occurs, especially from athletes making their debut at this level.

The defining moment came when she lifted 93 kilograms.

That lift secured more than victory – it became the world record for women's 79kg rookie class.

"Thank you to all coaches and seniors who continuously supported me. I hope to improve further, maintain training enthusiasm, avoid complaining, and achieve targets," stated 15-year-old Delima Yunia Susanti in an official NPC Indonesia release quoted in Jakarta on Tuesday.

This dominant performance didn't come without pressure. Delima admitted losing confidence facing more experienced senior athletes.

"Deep down, I was terrified competing against seniors. But I'm thrilled to participate in such a major event alongside great senior opponents," she said.

This experience forms a crucial foundation for higher competition levels – from Asian championships to the Paralympic stage she now targets.

Delima recognizes this world record isn't enough. She must still improve lift quality, strengthen competitive mentality, and maintain training consistency to compete in the Open category against world's best athletes.

Overall, Team Indonesia performed competitively, collecting 25 medals: six gold, four silver, and 15 bronze, placing them 10th overall.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan dominated the final Standings with the highest Medal count.