Weight lifter Talha Talib on Sunday missed out on a rare Olympic Medal for Pakistan but turned plenty of heads as Pakistan finally took notice of him. After a gap of 44 years, Pakistan was featured in the weightlifting competition at the Tokyo Olympics with Talha Talib representing the country.
The 21-year-old lifter from Gujranwala, making his Olympic debut, took part in the 67 kg category and held the gold medal spot until the final round before eventually being bumped down and denied a podium finish.
Talha, competing in the 67kg men’s weightlifting contest, was on top of the race for a while before being surpassed by athletes from China, Italy, and Colombia in final attempts.
He entered the competition without a coach, yet he proved himself. He couldn’t have a medal but he received praise from many celebrities and fans from Pakistan.
Shadaab Khan said: “Pakistan is proud of Talha Talib. Urge sponsors and sports administration to help athletes like Talha, they have the potential to bring home Olympic medals and make Pakistan proud if given the facilities and financial support.”
Javeria Khan said: “Win or lose, you have already made Pakistan proud”.
Journalist Meher Tarar said: “So proud of our Olympian Talha Talib. More power to you, Pakistan is rooting for you”
Ghareeda Farooqi said: “Talha Talib super boy!!! You have made the whole Pakistan 🇵🇰 proud. Shabash! It’s no small feat given how this sports is neglected in 🇵🇰 as compared to cricket. Zero facilities yet a great achievement. Pakistan must welcome you like a hero and invest!”
Mahira Khan said: “You’ve made us all very very proud!”
Asim Azhar said: “Girte hain shahsawar hi maidan-e-jung mai… you stood up & made the whole nation proud”
Yumna Zaidi said: “You won our heart”
Shoaib Malik said: “We are proud of you Champ, keep your head high!”
A hero is born. Talib’s performance despite an obvious lack of resources turned him a hero as Twitter showered him with praises and his name became the top trend on the site.
