Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal has said that bullying and harassment of young athletes could undermine the future of sports in the Maldives, urging greater responsibility in how emerging talent is discussed and treated.

Tholal made the remarks in a social media post responding to criticism surrounding the nomination of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s son, Umair Mohamed Muizzu for the Sports Awards 2025 by the Table Tennis Association, with the awards recognising achievements recorded in 2024.

The Table Tennis Association has said nominations for the Sports Awards were based on athletes’ competitive results and achievements. According to the association, Umair secured gold medals in several international competitions during 2024.

In his post, Tholal said that harassment directed at young athletes, particularly when it involves misrepresentation of facts, risks discouraging promising talent and weakening long-term sports development. He said athletes should not be denied recognition due to family background, adding that achievements earned through training and commitment should be assessed on merit.

The Sports Commissioner said recognising achievements and providing constructive guidance to young athletes are essential to strengthening the national sports ecosystem, adding that sustained support for developing athletes would benefit the country in the long term.