By Our Correspondent
LAHORE (February 2, 2026): Punjab Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar, on the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, presented a cheque of Rs 3 lakh to 14-year-old international taekwondo star Ayesha Ayaz on behalf of Sports Board Punjab. The Provincial Minister for Sports presented the cheque to Ayesha Ayaz during a meeting held at the National Hockey Stadium on Monday. He also awarded a cash prize of Rs one lakh from his own pocket to encourage the young athlete from Swat.
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Vice-Chairman Sports Board Punjab (SBP) Malik Suleman, Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Punjab Muhammad Ali and other officials concerned were also present on this occasion.
Praising the initiatives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar said that CM Punjab firmly believes in the promotion of sports and the patronage of young talented athletes. “It is due to her vision and commitment that Pakistani female athletes are winning laurels in international sports competitions,” he said.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar said that Ayesha Ayaz is not only the daughter of Swat but the pride of the entire nation. He said that at the age of just 14, Ayesha has won 11 international medals and more than 150 medals overall which is an exceptional feat that makes her Pakistan’s youngest and most successful international taekwondo player.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar said that Ayesha has the potential to raise Pakistan’s flag at the Olympic Games and reaffirmed that patronizing such talented athletes is the top priority of Punjab government.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar also paid rich tribute to Ayesha’s father M Ayaz Khan, who is also her coach. He said that the strong bond between father and daughter reflects dedication, trust, and sacrifice, serving as a role model for parents across the country. He acknowledged Ayaz Khan’s tireless efforts and professional training as the foundation of Ayesha’s remarkable success.
Ayesha Ayaz, on the occasion, expressed her gratitude to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Provincial Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar for their encouragement and support. She said that she will try her best to win more international titles for the country in future as well.
