This is with reference to the article “Time to pay attention to sports” (Feb. 2) by Abdulateef Al-Mulhim. The writer has highlighted an important issue. It is indeed sad that Saudi Arabia has yet to make its mark in the world of sports. The Kingdom has huge potential and resources that can help the country reach new heights in almost every sport. The dismal performance of the Saudi football team in the Asian Cup has raised many legitimate questions. As the writer has aptly mentioned that there is a great need for ensuring transparency in the selection process. This is the first step that lays the foundations of success. Nepotism at this level will always result in disasters like the one we witnessed in the recently concluded Asian Cup. After the selection process, comes the training and education phase. Physical training of players is not enough. Players need to be groomed mentally as well. Sport is all about a positive attitude.

There is a great need for promoting sporting activities in the Kingdom. The government is keen on promoting these healthy activities, which is evident from the construction of various arenas for the purpose. I urge the private sector to play its role for the promotion of sports in the Kingdom by offering sports scholarships, training programs and holding various city-level tournaments of different games.

Naif Al-Johaini

Riyadh