Behind Medina’s success in winning SEA Games gold despite being pregnant and feeling nauseous before competing

Viralterkini.id, Jakarta – Behind the glittering medals at the SEA Games Thailand 2025, lies the story of Medina Warda Aulia’s extraordinary struggle. The Indonesian chess athlete successfully presented one gold, one silver and one bronze for Merah Putih.

Medina’s achievements were not easy. She competed at 7 months pregnant, pregnant with her first child. Before the game, he experienced nausea. Nevertheless, he remained calm, focused and appeared precise.

“Just before the match, I felt nauseous. But, when I played, I didn’t feel nauseous anymore. Because I was focused on the match,” said Medina.

To overcome this condition, Medina has a simple but effective way. He always asks his colleagues on the chess team to prepare coconut water for every match.

He consumed the drink in the waiting room before the match started. Apart from that, there are also chocolates and sweets which are also a mainstay to help relieve nausea.

“As soon as you get on the chessboard, focus on the match. You won’t feel any nausea,” said Medina.

Medina’s participation in this year’s SEA Games has also gone through careful consideration. Medina consulted with a gynecologist and was declared safe to compete. Support was in full flow from family and National Pelatnas colleagues who were always ready to help during preparations for the match.

However, the real struggle occurred long before the Thailand SEA Games started. Medina underwent a period of National Training and competitive trials with high discipline. Every Monday to Friday, he even drives himself from his house in the Condet area (Jakarta) to Bekasi to take part in training.

There was one tough phase that almost made him stop for a moment. In the middle of National Training, his physical condition deteriorated to the point where he had to rest for a week. “At that time I was really tired and really had to rest,” he recalled.

The hard work finally paid off. Medina closed the 2025 Thailand SEA Games with a collection of one gold, one silver and one bronze medal.

Gold medals were won from the ASEAN Chess Rapid Women Quadruple, silver from the FIDE Chess Rapid Women Double, and bronze from the Makruk Chess Classic Mixed Quintuples. This is clearly a proud and touching achievement.

This SEA Games gold medal is worth up to IDR 1 billion. For Medina, this brings a special feeling of gratitude. He had also planned the bonus carefully. “Later, make investments and savings for children’s education,” he said.

Now, Medina confirms that his condition is good. With determination, support from those closest to him, and strong belief, he proved that determination and a high fighting spirit can overcome all challenges. His story can be a symbol of inspiration for Indonesia’s young generation. (ma)