Ms Toh said that it is common for the sea breeze to pick up around the time of the race. “Maybe he felt that it was too overpowering,” she said.
“But it’s good – first medal and Singapore’s only medal (for the Paris 2024 Games).”
Former sailor Mok Kahmun said Maeder is likely to be his own toughest critic.
“He looked disappointed on the coach’s boat, I felt for him,” she said.
“But he still got up on his board and flew the flag high, which I thought was very sweet, although inside he must feel really crushed,” said Ms Mok, who volunteers at the National Sailing Centre.
Fans who gathered at the centre on Friday evening also got to say hi to Maeder through a WhatsApp video call shortly after the victory ceremony. He waved, blew a kiss and showed off his medal to supporters.