NOWSHERA – Rizwan Pathan, a national-level martial arts and gymnastics athlete from Bajaur District, has been forced to work as a labourer at a marble factory in Nowshera due to financial difficulties, highlighting the struggles faced by talented athletes in Pakistan.
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Pathan, a multiple medallist, won a gold medal at the 2018 national martial arts championships and has earned numerous medals at provincial and local competitions. Despite his achievements, he says financial constraints have become the biggest obstacle to his dream of representing Pakistan internationally.
“I saw a video in Mardan and my interest in gymnastics grew even more,” Pathan told Geo News. “Because gymnastics requires significant financial resources, I shifted to martial arts and went on to win national-level medals.”
However, the ongoing financial pressure forced him to take up daily-wage labour to support his family. “There is widespread poverty in our area, and my family is facing serious difficulties. Alongside pursuing my passion, I have to work as a labourer to provide for my household,” he said.
Pathan’s story sheds light on the challenges faced by many athletes in Pakistan, where lack of institutional support, sponsorship, and funding often force promising sportspeople to abandon their careers.
Despite the hardships, Pathan remains determined to achieve his sporting ambitions. He appealed to both government institutions and private patrons for support, saying, “If I am supported, I will become the best player and make Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan proud.”
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His perseverance and dedication underscore the need for structured support systems for athletes across the country, ensuring that talent is nurtured rather than lost to economic hardship.
Pathan’s journey serves as a reminder that while medals and accolades bring pride, sustained financial backing is essential for athletes to reach their full potential and represent Pakistan on the global stage.