Muhammad Riaz, once a shining star in Pakistan’s football scene and a participant in the 2018 Asian Games, is now struggling to make a living by selling jalebis on the streets. His heartbreaking journey reflects the neglect of sports at the organizational level, despite promises from the Prime Minister to revive departmental sports.
“For years, I waited for the revival of departmental sports,” Riaz expressed his disappointment. “When nothing changed, I had no choice but to earn an honest living for my family.”
The 29-year-old footballer from Hangu, who also played for K-Electric, criticized the PTI government’s decision to ban departmental sports, calling it a major blow to Pakistani athletes.
“Our society does not prioritize sports. Without departmental support, athletes are left helpless. How can young players dream of pursuing football when a national player like me is forced to sell jalebis to survive?”
His story has sparked outrage among sports analysts. Taimoor Kayani, former advisor to the Ministry of IPC, called it a national tragedy, pointing out that if Riaz had played in Europe, he could have been a millionaire. “This is not just Riaz’s struggle—many national footballers and hockey players are suffering the same fate,” Kayani remarked.
