TODAY’S PAPER | July 16, 2026 | EPAPER

Sahar Sibghat's gold win at National Weightlifting Championship draws praise

Weightlifter clinches gold in the 59kg category to become the national champion


Life And Style Desk July 16, 2026 1 min read
PHOTO: Screengrab

Pakistan's women athletes continue to make their mark, with weightlifter Sahar Sibghat adding another milestone by winning gold and claiming the national title at the National Weightlifting Championship.

Competing in the 59kg category, Sibghat delivered a dominant performance, successfully lifting 59kg, 76kg and 81kg to secure the championship.

The victory marked the culmination of years of perseverance, with Sibghat reflecting on the setbacks that shaped her journey.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

"Since 2024, I've been chasing one thing: a national gold medal. Along the way, I learned that silver is probably the toughest medal to win. It means you were so close, but not quite there. It keeps you hungry. Last night, the wait finally ended," she wrote on Instagram.

She added, "Alhamdulillah, I am proud to say that I am now the National Weightlifting Champion. Grateful to everyone who supported me and excited for what's next."

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Sibghat also shared a behind-the-scenes reel from the competition, giving followers a glimpse into her experience.

The video captured moments with fellow athletes, the challenge of competing during a heatwave, her first meal after winning the title and an emotional embrace with her father, who supported her throughout the event.

Her victory drew widespread praise from fans and fellow athletes, many celebrating her resilience after years of narrowly missing the top spot. The achievement also adds to the growing momentum of Pakistani women excelling in sport.

PHOTO: mustafafahad26/Instagram

PHOTO: mustafafahad26/Instagram

Among those celebrating her success was actor Fahad Mustafa, who reposted a clip from the championship on his Instagram Story.

"Congratulations Pakistan," he wrote, describing Sibghat's achievement as a proud moment for the nation.

Fans also praised the weightlifter in her Instagram comments, congratulating her on a momumental win.

The national title fulfils a long-held ambition for Sibghat and serves as an inspiration for aspiring female athletes looking to break barriers in weightlifting.

COMMENTS

Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ