Arshad Nadeem Wins Pakistan’s First Olympic Medal in 32 Years: The Javelin Thrower Who Outpaced Neeraj Chopra

Qurat ul Ain Ali
“Passion is the fuel, the drive, the energy that moves us toward our goals and fuels our dreams.” Arshad Nadeem, jevelinthrow champion set a new men’s javelin throw record with a remarkable 92.97m throw at the Paris 2024 Olympics, surpassing the previous record of 90.57m held by Norway’s Andreas Thorkildsen. It was a historic moment for Pakistani sports. The 27-year-old Arshad Nadeem not only claimed the top position but also set a new Olympic record with a remarkable throw of 92.97 meters. This achievement moved Pakistan to 53rd place out of 206 nations, while India ranks 63rd with five medals. Notably, Pakistan’s Olympic squad had only seven athletes, making this the country’s first Olympic gold in 32 years. In a historic moment for both nations, Arshad Nadeem and Neeraj Chopra, fierce rivals yet close friends, secured gold and silver respectively in the men’s javelin final. Indeed, their camaraderie, despite India-Pakistan tensions, showcased mutual respect and sportsmanship, winning admiration worldwide. The two first competed together in 2016, and their friendship has only strengthened over the years, marked by shared podiums and mutual support. *_The head-to-head records of Arshad Nadeem stated as:*_ • South Asian Games 2016: 1st (82.23m)…….. Asian Junior Championships 2016: 3rd (78.33m)….. • Ho Chi-Minh , 2nd (77.60m)…… • World U20 Athletics Championships 2016: 3rd (73.40m)….. • Bydgoszcz: 1st (86.48m)….. • Asian Athletics Championships 2017: 30th (67.17m)…… • Bhubaneshwar: 1st (85.23m)…… • Commonwealth Games 2018: 7th (78.00m)…. • Gold Coast: 1st (86.47m)……. • Asian Games 2018: 8th (76.02m)……. • Jakarta: 1st (88.06m)…….. • Tokyo Olympics 2020: 3rd (80.75m)…….. • World Athletics Championships 2022:1st (87.58m), 5th (84.62m)…….. • Oregon: 2nd (88.13m)……… • World Athletics Championships 2023: 5th (86.16m). • Budapest: 1st (88.17m) • Paris Olympics : 2nd (87.82m), 2nd (89.45m),1st (92.97m)……. Certainly, Arshad Nadeem’s interest in javelin throw was significantly influenced by his father’s passion for Pakistan’s popular rural sport, Nezabazi (tent pegging). Afterward, Ashraf, like many in their town, would visit the grounds after a long day to watch horsemen showcase their skills, and Arshad would accompany him. Encouraged by his father, Arshad took up Nezabazi, training daily and frequently visiting the town’s expansive grounds, which exposed him to various outdoor sports. Moreover, Arshad nadeem’ s father recounted to an international reporter that around 2010, Arshad had requested a cricket bat and ball. It was on the village grounds that a young Arshad first played cricket before being encouraged by his brothers to pursue athletics. At the village school, Arshad experimented with shot put, discus throw, hammer throw, and long jump. Consequently, Nadeem’s journey, beginning at the Youth Festival, highlights the importance of nurturing talent through positive initiatives. His success inspires hope for future athletes to achieve global recognition. Notably, true champion Arshad nadeem, who achieved without seeking central contracts, foreign coaches, or increased salary demands, and without sponsorships from cell phone companies, beverage brands, or banks, reflects his exceptional dedication. Besides, operating without manipulative managers, technical support, javelin facilities, data analysts, or NOC politics, and free from ego or excuses, Nadeem’s performance is a testament to his resilience, and set a new javelin record earned a gold medal, the gratitude of 240 million people, and the admiration of sports enthusiasts worldwide. On the other hand, before Arshad Nadeem’s achievements, javelin throw in Pakistan was not widely recognized on the international stage. The sport lacked prominence and success in major global competitions. Likewise, there were few notable performances or athletes making headlines. Nevertheless, Arshad Nadeem’s rise to prominence has increased interest and investment in javelin throw in Pakistan, marking a new era for the sport in the country. However, he exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and excellence. Rising from modest beginnings, his dedication to javelin throwing has led him to achieve remarkable success on the global stage. His unwavering commitment, despite limited resources, showcases his remarkable discipline and passion with achievements as a testament to his hard work and an inspiration to athletes everywhere. Significantly, his story is not just about sporting success but also about overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness through sheer determination. Infact, the entire nation is immensely proud of Arshad Nadeem for uplifting the country and making history with his achievements.