Pakistan’s weightlifter Talha Talib became an instant sensation when he overcame adversity and finished fifth in the 67kg weightlifting competition at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Despite little support from the country’s authorities, Talha was able to exceed expectations and only missed the bronze medal by 2 kg.
Talha’s great achievement was celebrated on all social media platforms as people paid tribute to the 21-year-old’s efforts. His performance also helped shed light on the poor facilities and conditions athletes are forced to train in and caused an uproar in the community over the poor management of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).
Talha is one of only ten athletes from Pakistan to compete in the Olympics this year, and people started questioning authorities about their failure to promote various sports in the countries. Despite all the bad decisions by the authorities, Talha was hailed as the hero of the nation.
Let’s check out social media reactions:
You’ve made us all very very proud! #TalhaTalib
— Mahira Khan (@TheMahiraKhan) July 25, 2021pic.twitter.com/nblmscSCsj
He fell, but stood up and made Pakistan proud, great effort Talha Talib!
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) July 25, 2021pic.twitter.com/ic6TXdCXWT
Ur passion & hard work leads u to be a Achiever. Congratulations #TalhaTalib
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) July 25, 2021#Olympics . U made Pakistan
People hope that Talha’s inspirational journey could prove to be a turning point for the sport in the country. The 21-year-old weightlifter is considered a ray of hope in the country’s sport and many believe he will achieve bigger and better things in the next few years.
