Sports contribute significantly in enhancing the reputation and image of the nation.
A quick look at Qatar, hosting the massive 2022 FIFA World Cup, makes sense immediately.
By spending a record $220 billion to host the prestigious event, Qatar stunned the world.
It broke new ground by becoming the first country to spend so much money to host the World Cup.
The Islamic nation has faced many difficulties since being selected to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022 twelve years ago.
Its governance policies have drawn harsh criticism from the Western media, including human rights abuses, allegations of bribery in the bidding process, and its stance against homosexuality.
But Qatar overcame all those hurdles and successfully organized the massive event and won the hearts of football lovers.
In the presence of other dignitaries, King Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani officially opened the World Cup. Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also attended the opening ceremony of the World Cup