Pakistan, Feb. 23 -- Rizwan Pathan, a national-level martial arts and gymnastics athlete from Bajaur District, has been forced to work as a labourer at a marble factory in Nowshera due to financial difficulties, highlighting the struggles faced by talented athletes in Pakistan.

Pathan, a multiple medallist, won a gold medal at the 2018 national martial arts championships and has earned numerous medals at provincial and local competitions. Despite his achievements, he says financial constraints have become the biggest obstacle to his dream of representing Pakistan internationally.

"I saw a video in Mardan and my interest in gymnastics grew even more," Pathan told Geo News. "Because gymnastics requires significant financial resources, I ...