Sushanta Ghosh

On July 30, Ashikur Rahman Zubayer received a letter from Guinness World Record at his house on Masjid Bari Road in Jhalakati. Eight months ago, Ashikur had submitted his world record attempt entry to the organisation under football freestyle world records category.

The letter contained the world record recognition certificate Ashikur had been waiting for.

“I have broken the world record on the football freestyle category! I played the ball 625 times per minute, three more than the last record, which was 622 times per minute by a German national,” he told the Daily Star.

Ashikur, son of Reksona and Jalal Ahmed, is a fourth-year honors student at the management department of Barishal Government Brojomohun College (BM College).

“I have been trying to be a world famous freestyler for three years. I have practised heart and soul, often learning skills from YouTube videos. I have finally got the recognition I deserve,” an elated Ashikur said.

On Thursday afternoon, Barishal Deputy Commissioner SM Aziar Rahman hosted a reception for Ashikur at his office. There the deputy commissioner and the district sports body greeted him with flowers, honored him with a crest, and awarded him a cash prize of Tk 10,000.

“We are proud of Ashikur. The name of Barishal has flourished along with his,” the deputy commissioner said.

Ashikur’s mother Reksona Ahamed said, “We could never imagine our son would achieve such a prestigious title. We seek blessings and good wishes for him.”

Newly crowned Guinness World Record holder Ashikur freestyles in front of a small but enthralled audience at the Barishal Deputy Commissioner’s Office in the city.

PHOTO: COLLECTED