Dr. Adina Saidzada writes ✍️
Professor, National University of Tajikistan
It is often said that sports are the key to health, endurance, and strength, and no one doubts this statement. Furthermore, sport is a messenger of peace, friendship, reassurance, safety, and unity among the world’s peoples.
Among the various sports, football stands out as one of the most widespread and popular sports in the world. Its history spans nearly three centuries, and since the 1930s, football has been officially recognized as a global sport. However, until recently, there was no official global day of celebration for football. Today, it is nearly impossible to find someone who is not passionate about this sport. As the Tajiks say, “The goldsmith knows the value of gold,” which captures the importance of football in modern society.
This recognition was embraced by Rustam Emomali—President of the Central Asian Football Association, President of the Tajikistan Football Federation, and Mayor of Dushanbe—who played a pivotal role in transforming football’s global recognition.
The Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, under the leadership of President Emomali Rahmon, Craftsman of Peace and National Unity, has given special national importance to sports, particularly as a tool for improving the health of the people. In Dushanbe, every neighborhood features sports fields, and even rural villages have access to such facilities. These developments are a result of intentional government planning and investment.
Moreover, athletes in Tajikistan receive consistent material and moral support, making sports development a national priority. As a result, Tajik football has seen remarkable progress in recent years. The national team reached fourth place in the Asian Cup and qualified for the 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup. At the same time, Tajik national and club teams have actively participated in Asian competitions, raising the country’s sporting profile.
Rustam Emomali’s leadership is marked by innovation and bold initiatives. On February 9, 2024, he proposed to the United Nations that it officially recognize football’s role worldwide by declaring an International Football Day through a UN General Assembly resolution.
His proposal stated that: “Sport is a global cultural phenomenon that transcends borders, language, and social differences. It unites the world and speaks a language everyone understands—football is known and played everywhere, from major cities to the most remote villages.“
Following this, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared May 25 as International Football Day, a move that was met with global appreciation and annual celebrations.
This initiative significantly enhanced Tajikistan’s cultural reputation on the world stage, and it is attributed to the professionalism, responsibility, vision, and peace-loving spirit of Rustam Emomali, a leader worthy of international recognition.
May the International Football Day be a day of joy and prosperity for all citizens and football fans across the world.
Adina Ahmad Saidzoda
Professor, National University of Tajikistan
