FPJ Exclusive | From Cab Driver To Chasing Asian Games Gold: Rower Salman Khan's Incredible Rise Against All Odds

Indian rower Salman Khan, who is set to represent the nation at the Asian Games 2026, shared his extraordinary rise from humble beginnings in an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal. Born in Pure Dhingai, Uttar Pradesh, Salman lost his father at the age of 18 and had to support his family by driving an Uber cab in Delhi while completing his schooling. His journey from a cab driver to an aspiring athlete is nothing short of remarkable.

Salman's introduction to rowing came unexpectedly. While resting after a long shift, a friend reminded him of his physical build and encouraged him to pursue the Army. This advice reignited his interest in joining the military, leading him to clear the recruitment rally, medical, and written exams in 2018. At the training center, his coaches noticed his potential and introduced him to rowing, despite his initial reluctance and family's financial struggles.

It wasn't until his first inter-centre regatta where Salman won a silver medal that he realized rowing could be a viable career path. The real turning point came in 2021 when he cleared the ergometer benchmarks and was selected for the Army Rowing Node (ARN) at CME Pune. Under the guidance of his coaches and trainers, Salman's talent flourished. He credits Major Nagendra Hooda sir and Colonel Ramakrishnan sir for their constant support and motivation, helping him regain his focus and confidence during challenging times.

Salman's journey has not been without obstacles. The death of his father at a young age and the financial burden of supporting his siblings were significant challenges. Transitioning from a life of daily driving to elite sports was daunting. However, these personal struggles taught him patience and mental toughness, qualities that proved invaluable in competitive rowing.

His breakthrough came at the 36th National Games in Gujarat in 2022, where he won gold. This victory was followed by a gold medal at the 2023 Senior Nationals in the single sculls, surpassing even Olympian Dattu Bhokanal in a closely contested race. In 2024, Salman won his first international gold at the Asian Rowing Cup in South Korea, which led to his promotion to Naib Subedar in the Indian Army.

Subsequent successes, including a silver at the 2025 Australian Rowing Championships and a silver at the 2025 Asian Rowing Championships, have solidified his position in India's national team, culminating in his selection for the Asian Games squad.