Pakistan’s top men’s and women’s table tennis players have been surprised by the decision of the Pakistan Table Tennis Federation (PTTF), which has reportedly asked the players to arrange their own funds if they want to participate in the Asian Games in Japan later this year.The matter came to light during the ongoing two-day national trials in Lahore, where some players questioned federation officials about the event’s daily allowances and travel expenses, PTI reported.According to one player, the players were informed that they would not receive any compensation for participating in the trials. The player also claimed that those selected for the Asian Games will have to bear their own travel and accommodation expenses.“We have been told that we will not be paid for participating in the trials. Second, the players selected for the Asian Games will have to arrange their air tickets and foreign currency at the rate of US$50 per day to cover expenses during the games,” a player was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.The player further said that many players raised objections after hearing the decision. However, he was reportedly told by a senior official of the federation that the organization itself was facing financial difficulties.We were told that PTTF is not getting any grant or funds from PSB even for Asian Games which is strange. Is this how sports are promoted in Pakistan? the player asked, declining to be named.According to the player, the official also told him that he should appreciate the fact that the trials were held despite the federation not receiving any financial support from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).The reported development has created uncertainty among athletes preparing for one of Asia’s biggest multi-sport events. Representing a country in the Asian Games is considered a great opportunity for athletes, but the need to fund their own participation can place an additional burden on those selected.Pakistan has never won a medal in table tennis at the Asian Games or the Asian Championships. At the continental level, the sport has traditionally been dominated by countries such as China, South Korea, Malaysia and India.
