Mohammad Sarim Akhtar got spot in Hongkong museum for his disappointment expression
When Muhammad Sarim Akhtar’s disappointed expression was captured on camera during a 2019 World Cup match between Pakistan and Australia, little did he know that it would catapult him to international fame, eventually landing him a spot in a Hong Kong museum exhibit.
As Akhtar stood, visibly displeased, with his hands on his waist following a missed catch by Asif Ali that led to Australia defeating the Pakistan team by 40 runs, his reaction resonated with Pakistani fans worldwide.
A post by the International Cricket Council on June 12, 2019, immediately propelled the London-based audit manager into becoming the world’s most recognizable meme figure and symbol of disappointment.
Now accustomed to his growing fan base, Akhtar found himself featured in Hong Kong’s Museum of Memes in early August, a development that took him by surprise.
“It was a huge surprise for me to be showcased in such an unconventional museum and recognized as the globally renowned Disappointed Cricket Fan meme!” Akhtar expressed in a phone interview with Arab News.
Akhtar’s journey into meme stardom continued as a Pakistani engineering student in Hong Kong stumbled upon his image at the museum and shared it with him.
Embracing his newfound fame, Akhtar’s sister discovered footage of the museum exhibition, which he proudly shared on social media.
With over 55,000 Twitter followers and growing, Akhtar finds his meme adaptable to various situations worldwide, not just confined to cricket.
Despite its versatility, Akhtar has refrained from using his own meme personally, though others have found creative ways to incorporate it into their lives, including one fan who sought permission to feature the image on his credit card as a deterrent from overuse.
Most interactions related to the iconic image involve gratitude from individuals who appreciate the humor it brings, with many surprised to learn that Akhtar holds a serious job as an audit manager.
Having embraced his meme persona, Akhtar is grateful for the widespread love and support he has received from around the globe.