Pakistan’s internationally acclaimed Tekken player, Arslan Ash, recently appeared on a podcast where he spoke openly about the early days of his career, family resistance, and personal struggles.
Arslan Siddique, better known as Arslan Ash, hails from Lahore and is a six-time EVO Champion. He revealed that convincing his family to accept gaming as a profession was one of the biggest challenges he faced.
"When I told my mother that I wanted to leave Chartered Accountancy and pursue gaming, she started crying. There was disappointment in her eyes. I simply asked her to give me one year. If I failed, I’d follow whatever path she chose."
Arslan further shared that not only his parents but even his brothers and close gamer friends were doubtful of his decision.
"People used to say that I could never beat Japanese or Korean players. Until I started winning, no one believed in me not even my brother."
Speaking about his humble beginnings, Arslan said he started gaming at a small neighborhood shop, where arcade machines were kept behind a fruit stall. That shop still exists today, though the gaming machines are no longer there.
Arslan Ash believes that Pakistan is full of raw gaming talent, but due to a lack of proper recognition and guidance, many young players struggle to reach the global stage.
His story is not just one of success it's also a powerful example of determination, belief, and earning the trust of one’s family against all odds.
