Just days after the nation celebrated Arshad Nadeem's record-breaking javelin throw of 92.97 metres, which won Pakistan's first-ever individual gold medal at the summer Olympic games, another Pakistani picked up a gold medal at an international sporting event. Amir Khan, a resident of the Amankot area of Swat, won gold at the International Taekwondo Championship in Bangkok.
Amir secured the medal after beating competition from India, Nepal, and the Philippines. Speaking to [The Friday Times], Amir detailed how a young lad from the mountainous region of Swat got to Bangkok. Amir said that he had to make tremendous efforts and sacrifices to participate in international competitions.
Unfortunately, he did not receive support from the official quarters and did not have access to funds to buy a plane ticket and other necessities. The martial artist lamented that he received no support despite submitting multiple requests to the Sports Department and the district administration. Asked about the competition, Amir told [The Friday Times] that he had been preparing for a long time and was grateful to have participated in the competition and win.
He emphasised that there was no shortage of talent in Pakistan, but the lack of government support and attention presented a significant hurdle in ensuring that meritorious athletes rise to the top. "Many players cannot participate in national and international competitions simply because they lack support," he said, adding, "The country's eco.