Former Pakistan hockey Olympian Khawaja Zakauddin has passed away in Lahore at the age of 89, leaving behind a distinguished sporting legacy.
Born on October 27, 1936, in Jalandhar, Zakauddin represented Pakistan internationally between 1958 and 1966. During his career, he played 56 international matches and scored 26 goals.
Khawaja Zakauddin’s Olympic and Asian Games Career
Zakauddin was part of Pakistan’s hockey team at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, representing the country on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
He also played for Pakistan at three Asian Games held in 1958, 1962 and 1966. During that period, Pakistan established itself as a major force in Asian hockey.
Pakistan won gold medals at the 1958 and 1962 Asian Games, while the national team claimed a silver medal in 1966. Zakauddin was part of Pakistan’s journey across these major international competitions.
Recognition for His Services to Hockey
Zakauddin’s contribution to Pakistan hockey extended beyond his playing career. His services to the national sport were recognised with the Presidential Award for Pride of Performance by the Government of Pakistan.
After retiring from international hockey, he continued serving the national team in different roles. These responsibilities included coaching, chief selection duties and team management.
His involvement in these positions allowed him to remain connected with Pakistan hockey even after ending his career as a player. Consequently, his association with the national team continued across different stages of his sporting life.
Hockey Community Pays Tribute
The news of Zakauddin’s death prompted former Pakistan hockey players and Olympians to express their grief. They also paid tribute to his contribution to the national sport.
His career combined international representation, Olympic participation and success at the Asian Games. Moreover, his later roles in coaching, selection and management extended his service to Pakistan hockey.
Khawaja Zakauddin’s death at 89 marks the loss of a former Olympian whose career remained closely connected with Pakistan hockey for decades.
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