THE recent Asian Games have come and gone, leaving Pakistan with a meagre three medals — a solitary silver and two bronzes. This dismal result not only highlights the need for immediate introspection but also raises concerns about the consistent decline in Pakistan’s performance in major international sporting events like the Asian Games and the Olympics.
It is essential to put this performance into perspective. In 1998, Pakistan clinched fifteen medals in the Asian Games. Instead of further improving on it, today, we find ourselves scraping the bottom with just three. This sharp contrast is not just a matter of numbers; it reflects a broader issue that needs urgent attention. Our neighbouring countries, on the other hand, are steadily climbing the ladder of success. The recent Asian Games saw one of our closest neighbours amassing a staggering 107 medals. The unfortunate part is that there seems to be no accountability for such a dismal performance. Those at the helm of affairs within the Pakistan Sports Board and the Pakistan Olympics Association need to answer for this debacle. There is no dearth of talent in our country and our athletes have proven this time and again. It is only a matter of supporting them and extending the necessary facilities. However, the recent performance in Asian Games clearly indicates our sports bodies are failing in this regard. The first step towards improvement is holding those responsible accountable. The Pakistan Sports Board and the Pakistan Olympics Association should be scrutinized for their role in the decline of sporting performance. A transparent review of their management and policies is essential to identify areas that need reform. To ensure a steady pipeline of talent, we need to invest in sports education and grassroots development programs. Schools and communities should be encouraged to promote a sporting culture. We should recruit and train competent coaches who can identify and nurture talent from an early age. Talent identification programs should be established in different sports to ensure we don’t miss out on potential champions. It is also important to encourage the private sector to invest in sports. Sponsorships and partnerships with businesses can provide much-needed financial support to athletes and sports associations. With the right commitment, investment and a strong sense of accountability, we can turn the tide and watch our athletes shine on the global stage once again.
