LAHORE: Wrestling legend and national hero Din Mohammad, Pakistan’s first international gold medalist, has passed away at the age of over 100 after a prolonged illness.
Hailing from Lahore’s Bata Pur area, Din Mohammad made history at the 1954 Asian Games in Manila, where he secured Pakistan’s first-ever gold medal by defeating top wrestlers from the Philippines, India, and Japan.
In addition to his Asian Games triumph, Din Mohammad also earned a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games and proudly represented Pakistan in several international tournaments, becoming a symbol of national pride in the early years of the country’s sports history.
A spokesperson for the Punjab Sports Board confirmed the sad news and hailed Din Mohammad’s groundbreaking achievement as a defining moment in Pakistan’s athletic legacy.
Punjab Sports Minister Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar expressed deep grief, saying, “Din Mohammad’s contributions to Pakistani sports and wrestling are legendary. He raised our flag high on global platforms and will always be remembered as a true patriot and champion.”
Punjab Director General of Sports Khizar Afzal Chaudhry also extended condolences, stating, “Wrestler Din Mohammad made the entire nation proud. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
The sports fraternity mourns the loss of a pioneer whose dedication, courage, and achievements laid the foundation for Pakistan’s presence in international wrestling.
