Pakistan’s leading men’s and women’s table tennis players have been left surprised by a decision from the Pakistan Table Tennis Federation (PTTF), which has reportedly asked athletes to arrange their own funds if they want to compete at the Asian Games in Japan later this year.The issue came to light during the ongoing two-day national trials in Lahore, where some players approached federation officials to ask about daily allowances and travel expenses for the event, PTI reported.According to a player, athletes were informed that they would not receive any payment for participating in the trials. The player also claimed that those selected for the Asian Games would have to bear the cost of their own travel and stay-related expenses.“We have been told that we will not be paid anything for appearing in the trials. Secondly, the players selected for the Asian Games will have to arrange their own air tickets and foreign currency at the rate of USD 50 per day to cover expenses during the Games,” a player said, as quoted by news agency PTI.The player further said that several athletes raised objections after hearing the decision. However, they were reportedly told by a senior federation official that the organisation itself was facing financial constraints.“We were told that even for the Asian Games, the PTTF is not receiving any grant or funds from the PSB, which is strange. Is this how sports is promoted in Pakistan?” the player questioned, while declining to be named.According to the player, the official also told them that they should appreciate the fact that the trials had been organised despite the federation not receiving any financial assistance from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).The reported development has created uncertainty among players preparing for one of the biggest multi-sport events in Asia. Representing the country at the Asian Games is considered a major opportunity for athletes, but the requirement to fund their own participation could place an additional burden on those selected.Pakistan have never won a medal in table tennis at either the Asian Games or the Asian Championships. The sport at the continental level has traditionally been dominated by countries such as China, South Korea, Malaysia and India.
