Pakistan’s most decorated para-athlete, Haider Ali, has publicly appealed to the federal and Punjab governments for the recognition and support he believes para-sports have long been denied, saying his medal-winning performances for the country have yet to earn him the appreciation he deserves.
Speaking in a message after winning the silver medal in the discus throw at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, Haider did not mince words. “I have always faced injustice in this regard. I have not received the love and government support that I should have been given,” he said, urging authorities to treat para-athletes on a par with the country’s other celebrated sporting heroes.
The four-time Paralympic medallist pointed to his extraordinary record: gold at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, bronze at Paris 2024, and gold at the previous Asian Para Games — Pakistan’s only gold medal of that edition. He argued that such achievements merited sustained institutional backing to keep him competing at the highest level.
Haider singled out the Punjab government in particular, noting that the attention being given to sports in the province should also extend to the National Paralympic Committee and para-athletes. He also appealed directly to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to ensure greater support for athletes with disabilities across the country.
His Nagoya medal came against the odds. Haider revealed that an injury sustained in training had threatened his participation in the continental event, and he credited his recovery to Dr. Rizwan Aftab Ahmed, CEO of ACTIVIT and Director of National Hospital DHA Lahore. “Thanks to the treatment, I was able to compete and win a medal for my country. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Rizwan and his team of specialist doctors for helping me recover, regain my fitness and deliver this medal-winning performance,” he said. He had trained extensively in his hometown of Gujranwala to prepare for the Games.
Despite his frustration, Haider acknowledged the cooperation of the Pakistan Sports Board and thanked Pakistan WAPDA, his federation and the National Paralympic Committee for their support. He also praised the media for highlighting para-athletes’ performances, saying the coverage motivated athletes and brought their achievements before the public.
Looking ahead, the para-athlete has set ambitious targets: the World Championships in Tashkent next year and qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. “I want the support of everyone to continue in the same way. Insha’Allah, the day is not far when we will win a world title and a medal at the Los Angeles Paralympics,” he said, urging government departments, sports organisations and sponsors to help him prepare.
