Mohammad Riaz, a former Pakistan footballer who represented the country in the 2018 Asian Games, has now been forced to sell jalebis to earn a livelihood due to a lack of financial support and opportunities in sports.
Riaz, who was once a key player for the national football team, now runs a small food stall in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to support his family. His story highlights the struggles faced by many athletes in Pakistan, where financial instability and inadequate sports infrastructure often push players into difficult circumstances.
Speaking to local media, Riaz expressed his disappointment over the lack of support for footballers in Pakistan. “I dedicated my life to football and represented Pakistan on the international stage, but now I am struggling to make ends meet,” he said.
His plight has sparked outrage among sports enthusiasts, with many calling on the government and football authorities to step up and provide financial assistance to struggling athletes.
Pakistan’s football scene has long suffered due to internal disputes, lack of funding, and FIFA bans, leaving many talented players without proper career prospects. Riaz’s situation is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by athletes who dedicate their lives to representing their country but receive little recognition or financial security in return.
Fans and former players have urged authorities to take immediate action to support sportsmen like Riaz, ensuring that national heroes do not have to struggle for their basic needs after dedicating years to the game.
