Athletes claim they have been asked to bear travel and daily expenses for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan after the Pakistan Table Tennis Federation cited a lack of financial support from the national sports authorities.
Pakistan’s table tennis programme has been plunged into fresh controversy after the country’s leading players were reportedly informed that they would have to finance their own participation at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. The decision has sparked frustration among athletes, who questioned the state of sports funding in the country as they prepare for one of Asia’s biggest multi-sport events.
Players shocked during national trials
The issue surfaced during the ongoing two-day national selection trials in Lahore, where several players approached officials seeking information regarding travel allowances and daily expenses.
Instead of receiving financial assurances, the athletes were reportedly told that no allowance would be provided for participating in the trials. Those who eventually qualify for the Asian Games will also have to arrange their own international airfare and carry foreign currency worth USD 50 per day to cover their expenses during the competition in Japan.
Federation cites lack of government funding
According to the players, officials from the Pakistan Table Tennis Federation (PTTF) explained that the federation had not received any grants from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB). They reportedly added that athletes should appreciate the fact that the selection trials were organised despite the financial constraints.
The explanation has done little to calm concerns, with players questioning whether such a system can genuinely support elite athletes aiming to compete on the continental stage.
Pakistan’s struggle in Asian table tennis
Pakistan has historically found it difficult to make an impact in Asian table tennis. The country is yet to win a medal at either the Asian Games or the Asian Table Tennis Championships, where powerhouses such as China, South Korea, India and Malaysia have traditionally dominated the sport.
With athletes now expected to shoulder significant financial responsibilities before even stepping onto the international stage, many fear the decision could further affect Pakistan’s competitiveness and discourage talented players from continuing in the sport.
A worrying sign for non-mainstream sports
The latest development has once again highlighted the financial challenges faced by several non-cricket sports in Pakistan. While athletes continue to train with hopes of representing their country, uncertainty over funding remains a major obstacle in their preparation for international competitions.
As the countdown to the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games continues, the spotlight is now on whether the relevant authorities can resolve the funding crisis and ensure Pakistan’s table tennis players receive the support needed to compete at the highest level.
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