In my country, athletics is synonymous with sacrifice without reward. Very few manage to compete at international standards. For those who do, recognition comes late. It arrives only after they’ve won medals or major competitions. When athletes step onto the podium, the government wants to squeeze into that tiny square meter. Commercial brands also want to fit into that space. But before that moment, no one remembered them—when they were scraping together bus fare or training in completely worn-out shoes.

My respect goes to all those athletes—not necessarily professionals. They wake up at 5AM for their first training session. They take care of their nutrition, their rest, and their families. They also fight to stay focused on their goals despite everything working against them. Equally, my respect goes to those athletes who’ve reached their goals and stay humble and generous. They are exemplary for the young people who admire them and dream of chasing in their footsteps.