Lahore: His story, a stark reminder of the challenges faced by non-cricket athletes in Pakistan, sparked national outrage and sympathy after a viral video highlighted his plight.
Once a rising star in Pakistan football, 29-year-old Riaz’s career took a drastic turn after the government banned departmental sports, leaving hundreds of athletes unemployed. With no steady income and a family to support, he turned to selling sweets to survive.
“I had to find an honest way to make a living, which is why I’m here selling jalebis instead of playing football,” Riaz explained.
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His heartbreaking story caught the attention of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who responded by issuing a cheque of Rs2.5 million and announcing a job opportunity for the struggling footballer.
Support continued to pour in as the Pakistan Football League (PFL) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur each pledged Rs1 million, ensuring Riaz gets a fresh start.
The episode has reignited debates about athlete welfare in Pakistan, where cricket dominates funding and sponsorships, often leaving other sports neglected. Many are now calling for better financial security and career transition plans for athletes, so that stories like Riaz’s do not repeat.
