KARACHI: Pakistan’s Paralympic champion Haider Ali is aiming to add another medal to his remarkable career as he prepares to compete at the Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games in Japan from October 18 to 24.
The 41-year-old discus thrower expressed confidence in his preparations before departing for Japan, promising to give his best as he looks to continue Pakistan’s success on the international para-sports stage.
“Yes, I have worked hard and, Insha’Allah, will do my best,” Haider told reporter.
Confirming his participation in the discus throw event, the veteran athlete said three other Pakistani athletes would compete alongside him in the discipline.
Haider will lead a 16-member Pakistani contingent at the continental competition, with athletes set to represent the country in four disciplines: athletics, powerlifting, table tennis and wheelchair tennis.
The experienced para-athlete brings an impressive international record to the competition, having established himself as one of Pakistan’s most successful competitors in para-athletics.
His career highlight came at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, held in 2021, where he won gold in the discus throw. The achievement cemented his position among the country’s leading para-athletes and demonstrated his ability to perform on the biggest stage.
Haider also won silver in the long jump at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics and bronze in the same event at Rio 2016. At the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, he added another achievement to his collection by securing bronze in the discus throw.
His Asian Para Games record is equally impressive. The veteran has won four gold medals and two bronze medals at the continental event, making him a key figure in Pakistan’s medal ambitions for Nagoya.
As the Games approach, Haider’s experience and determination will be important assets for Pakistan’s contingent. His participation also offers another opportunity to showcase the talent and resilience of the country’s para-athletes.
With competition scheduled to begin on October 18, Pakistan will hope Haider can translate his preparations into another memorable performance and return home with a medal from Japan.
