Shahzeb Rind, Pakistan's first Karate Combat World Champion, proudly claimed his title in the name of his nation, emphasizing the urgent need for a sports culture in Pakistan. In a press conference at the residence of former Federal Minister Sardar Yar Mohammad Rind, Rind revealed his personal sacrifices, training for three months in America without a sponsor. He expressed gratitude for ex minister Rind's support during his challenging journey. Shahzeb Rind shared that his victory surprised the world, especially as he faced skepticism due to his Pakistani identity. Despite being underestimated, he dedicated two years of hard work to raise Pakistan's flag in the global arena. He highlighted the lack of training infrastructure and support for young athletes in Pakistan, contrasting it with other countries where children receive scholarships and training from a young age. He said that the government of Pakistan should patronize the youth. They have the ability to surprise the world. He said that there was a time in the final match that I felt like I had lost. But my heart And the mind did not accept defeat. And I preferred to fight till the end and die even though I fell. He said that my opponent had hit me with such a powerful punch on the head that I went into a semi-unconscious state.

"If I lose, what face will I show to the nation? I was a Muslim and I had a passion in me. I wanted to fight for Pakistan. My opponent got the upper hand over me. But Allah gave me strength and I got the upper hand over my opponent with the help of the prayers of the nation and my parents" he added. He said that if it was any other country, there would have been celebrations in this country for many weeks to win this title. Because European countries spend billions of rupees on their people to win this title. And the youth are trained for many years. I belong to a middle class family. From childhood I was interested to do something for Pakistan. He stressed that his win was not for monetary prizes but for national pride, calling on the government to support the youth and develop sports programs. Rind's heart and determination drove him through intense competition, even when facing a near-defeat moment in the finals. "I wanted to fight for Pakistan," he said, emphasizing the support of the nation behind him. As Rind celebrated his historic win, he urged for improvements in sports infrastructure and the establishment of professional training centers to nurture talent in Balochistan and beyond.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan