SEA Games 2025: Avvir Tham wins first men’s diving gold in 60 years

Avvir Tham is the first Singaporean to win gold in a men's diving event in 60 years. Photo: SNOC/ Lim Wei Xiang

For six straight SEA Games, since the 2013 edition, only Malaysians have stood at the top of the podium in men’s diving events. 

On Dec 17, at Assumption University’s Aquatic Centre, Avvir Tham ensured Majulah Singapura would be heard. 

The 20-year-old posted a new personal best of 370.35 in the men’s 1m springboard, beating the nine-strong field to gold. Teammate Max Lee also posted a personal best, scoring 319.35 to just miss out on the podium in fourth.

This is Singapore’s first men’s diving gold in 60 years. Hui Peng Seng was the last to take a title at the 1965 edition, when it was known as the SEAP Games. 

Tham, who has been juggling National Service with training, says the result shows his hard work has paid off. Photo: SNOC/ Lim Wei Xiang

“I really cannot put into words how amazing it feels,” said Tham. “It’s been a long journey and I’m so happy that I was able to win this gold medal for Singapore and put an end to Malaysia’s streak.” 

Tham’s road to gold required belief and a fair bit of balance, as the 20-year-old has yet to complete National Service. 

He said: “I didn’t think about whether it would work out or not. I just thought if I put in effort there may be a chance, so I just gave my 100 per cent and just wanted to see how far I can go and continue believing.” 

But he admitted that up until the night before competition, he was still filled with self-doubt. 

“There were negative thoughts in preparing for the Games, like (thinking) ‘What if I don’t do well?’ even up till last night,” he said. 

“But during the competition, I just tried not to think of anything else. I just tried to do my normal dives. I told myself I’m not hoping for a miracle, like a 10-point dive, but just what I’m able to do. I was very consistent throughout my dives, and every time I did a good dive, I would calm myself down.” 

Diving gold at the SEA Games carries weight, given the quality and depth of the Malaysian squad – regional juggernauts that have produced the likes of two-time Olympic medallist Pandelela Rinong Pamg in the past. 

Tham with his family after his gold-medal win on Dec 17. Photo: SNOC/ Lim Wei Xiang

Said Tham: “I’m not sure why, but the moment I stepped on the board, I felt very at ease. All of my past experiences and failures have led to this moment. I felt like it all came together and I relaxed and I knew I could do it. 

“When it was confirmed, a lot of emotions came to me. I don’t know how to explain; it feels like so many years of enduring and hard work just paid off. It’s a big deal. Singapore has been trying to get that SEA Games gold medal, and it feels like this medal has shown that everything I did paid off. I hope this is a step forward for Singapore diving.” 

The 33rd SEA Games are held in Thailand from 9 to 20 December 2025. For the latest Team Singapore coverage and news, follow Team Singapore on their social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) or visit the official Team Singapore website.