National Gold Medalist Rizwan Pathan Forced to Work as Laborer Amid Financial Struggles
Rizwan Pathan, a celebrated national-level martial arts and gymnastics athlete, has been compelled to work as a laborer at a marble factory in Nowshera due to severe financial difficulties. Despite earning multiple medals for the country, Pathan’s sporting career has been sidelined by economic pressures.
The athlete, who once represented Pakistan at major competitions, now spends his days performing manual labor to support himself and his family. Sources close to Pathan say that the lack of institutional support and sponsorships left him with few options to continue his athletic pursuits.
This situation highlights the challenges faced by many national athletes in Pakistan, who often struggle to sustain their careers financially despite achieving significant accomplishments. Sports professionals in less commercially popular disciplines frequently face gaps in funding, training resources, and long-term security.
Advocates and fellow athletes have called for urgent government and private sector intervention to support Pathan and others like him. They stress that investing in talented sportspeople not only boosts national pride but also inspires younger generations to pursue excellence in athletics.
Pathan’s story underscores the need for sustainable athlete welfare programs, including stipends, sponsorship opportunities, and post-career transition support. Without such measures, national talent risks being lost to financial hardship.
The community has expressed concern and solidarity, urging authorities to recognize Pathan’s contributions and provide assistance so he can either return to competitive sports or maintain a dignified livelihood.
