Shahzaib Rind laments broken promises by government despite international success

Karate World Champion and fighter Shahzaib Rindh celebrated his third victory at the KC Lightweight World Championship, dedicating the achievement to the nation. However, he expressed disappointment that his accomplishments continue to go unrecognised by the government, which has failed to fulfill financial commitments made to him.

Earlier, Shahzaib had posted a strongly worded message highlighting the government's failure to deliver on promises. He stated that the financial support announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, both a cash reward and funding for his training camp, was never provided, even after one year.

His post quickly went viral, prompting the athlete to release a video message in which he explained that he has been self-funding his international participation to represent Pakistan on the global stage.

“I have a complaint with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif,” he said. “Last year, after I defeated my Indian opponent, I was invited to the Prime Minister’s House and was promised financial support and full funding for my training camps.”

Thank you Pakistan 🇵🇰 #shahzaibrind #karatecombat #shahzaibrindworldchampion pic.twitter.com/5I6ge6uHAL

— Shahzaib “KING” Rind (@RindhShahzaib) July 24, 2025

He added that his father tried several times to contact former sports minister Rana Mashood and even held meetings, but received no response or follow-up from the authorities.

Check: Karate Champion Shahzaib Rind expresses disappointment over unfulfilled govt promises

“I haven’t received a single rupee since that announcement,” Shahzaib stated. “I still hope my appeal reaches the government, although I don’t expect much anymore. All I ever wanted was to make my country proud and show the world that Pakistanis can be champions too.”

He did, however, express gratitude to the government of Balochistan, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, President Asif Ali Zardari, and DHA Quetta, acknowledging their continued support in his journey.