Nagoya, Japan, October 04 (QNA) - Qatari Olympic and world champion Mutaz Barshim described the 21st Asian Games Doha 2030 as an exceptional opportunity for a new generation of athletes to compete at the highest level, inspire others, and explore the vast horizons and opportunities that sport can offer.

In a statement, Barshim expressed his immense happiness and deep pride at representing the State of Qatar by carrying the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) flag during the Asian Games flag handover ceremony in Nagoya, Japan. He emphasized that the moment marks the official beginning of the journey toward hosting the historic Doha 2030 Games.

He added that carrying the Asian Games flag on this occasion is a great honor and a responsibility he deeply values, as it symbolizes the link between Qatar's enduring sporting achievements and memories and the promising young generation of athletes who will shape the future of the continental Games.

Barshim noted that representing the nation on such a global stage instills a deep sense of pride that extends beyond athletes themselves to their families, coaches, and communities, all of whom have supported them throughout their sporting journeys. As an athlete, he said he understands that behind every celebrated sporting achievement lie years of tireless work, commitment, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in the goal.

The Qatari Olympic champion said the Asian Games bring together inspiring athletes from across the continent, each having followed a unique and challenging journey to reach the stage of fair competition.

Concluding his remarks, Barshim noted that Doha 2006 Asian Games marked a historic milestone in the development of Qatar's sports sector. (QNA)