Jakarta. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo on Friday personally congratulated two Indonesian athletes via video call after they won gold medals at the Paris Olympics, expressing his gratitude for their outstanding achievements.

Veddriq Leonardo claimed the gold in the inaugural men’s sport climbing speed event, while Rizki Juniansyah secured the top spot in the men’s 73kg weightlifting category on Thursday.

Both athletes triumphed over world record holders in their respective sports, with Rizki setting a new Olympic record by lifting 199 kilograms in the clean and jerk.

“Veddriq and Rizki, congratulations on your gold medals in sport climbing and weightlifting. I am incredibly proud of you, as are all Indonesians. Your achievements are a special gift for Indonesia’s 79th anniversary,” the president said in a video posted on his Instagram account.

President Jokowi also extended his best wishes to the other Indonesian athletes and officials still in Paris.

“I look forward to welcoming you all back home. See you at the State Palace,” the president added.