KARACHI: Pakistan’s Paralympic hero, Haider Ali, has called for equal recognition for Paralympic athletes, expressing his hope for getting the same treatment as Olympian Arshad Nadeem.
“Just like the Olympics, the Paralympics are considered a major sporting event worldwide,” said Haider Ali, Pakistan’s most decorated Paralympian. “I hope and request that I receive the same level of support as Arshad did,” he added. “When athletes are supported, it encourages others who are new to the field,” Ali said.
Haider won a bronze medal in discus throw at the Paris Paralympics.
He made history at the Tokyo Paralympics by winning gold in discus throw. He secured a silver in long jump in 2008 and a bronze in 2016. Reflecting on his recent achievement, Haider said: “If I receive the support I need, I have the confidence to turn this bronze into gold next time.” Haider Ali’s appeal comes ahead of his scheduled return to Pakistan on the morning of September 10th. His flight is expected to land at Islamabad Airport at 7:40 a.m., where he hopes to receive a hero’s welcome.