Shah wants to win medal to carry on father’s legacy for Pakistan

KARACHI: Japan-based Pakistan’s premier judoka Shah Hussain feels that his fight in the Olympics is a major event for the country and says he will try to carry on his father’s legacy and win a medal at the world’s major stage.

In a video message, Shah said that his father had won a medal for Pakistan in boxing in 1988 Seoul Olympics which was the last medal by any Pakistani in the Olympics in individual sports disciplines.

“I would like to carry on my father’s legacy so that Pakistan could start winning medals in the Olympics again,” Shah said.

“My fight is a major one, not only for me but also for my country. I have worked hard although there is stress keeping in view the value of my fight. I hope I will be able to deliver,” Shah said.

“Since featuring in the 2016 Rio Olympics I have learnt different things and have improved a lot. I have worked on mental issues as well while working with the Japanese coaches and InshaAllah will try my best,” said Shah, who won a silver medal at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

He was happy that despite difficulties created by Covid-19, he was able to earn an Olympic seat. Shah, ranked 50th in the world, will be facing World No13 Darwish Ramadan of Egypt in his -100 kg first fight on Thursday (tomorrow). If he wins the fight, he will meet World No 1 Varlam Liparteliani of Georgia in the second round.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Judo Federation’s (PJF) vice-president Masood Ahmad said he hoped that Shah would clear the first hurdle easily. “Although Shah’s fight against Egyptian will be tough, I am confident he will be able to prevail over him as in judo skills count a lot. I am sure Shah has improved a lot,” Masood told ‘The News’.

“Yes, in the second round Shah may face more trouble. In judo, anything can happen and it all depends on the skills and their execution. The Japanese coach will be able to keep Shah motivated and I hope it will be a fine event for Shah,” Masood said.

This is the second successive Olympics that no official of the PJF is accompanying Shah. Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) does not recognise the PJF.

“Had there been an official of the PJF there it would have been an added advantage for Shah,” Masood said.