In a moment that will be etched in Pakistan’s sporting history, Arshad Nadeem ended the country’s 32-year Olympic medal drought by winning gold in the men’s javelin throw at the Paris Olympics. The 27-year-old athlete set a new Olympic record with a massive throw of 92.97 meters, securing his place as the first-ever individual athlete from Pakistan to win an Olympic gold medal.
The medal ceremony took place at the prestigious Champions Park near the iconic Eiffel Tower, where Arshad stood on the podium, visibly emotional as Pakistan’s flag was hoisted high and the national anthem played in the background. His victory not only marks a personal triumph but also a historic milestone for the nation, which last won an Olympic gold in hockey at the 1984 Los Angeles Games.
Arshad’s achievement came after a stellar performance in the javelin final, where he was the only competitor to surpass the 90-meter mark twice, with his final throw measuring 91.79 meters.
His record-breaking 92.97-meter throw in the second round was enough to secure the gold, leaving his competitors far behind.
India’s Neeraj Chopra, the defending gold medalist, finished with a silver medal after his season-best throw of 89.45 meters. Grenada’s two-time world champion, Anderson Peterson, claimed the bronze with an impressive 88.54-meter throw in the fourth round, narrowly edging out Czechia’s Jakub Vadlejch.
Arshad Nadeem’s victory is not only a testament to his dedication and skill but also a moment of pride for Pakistan, which has been longing for an Olympic medal for over three decades. The last time Pakistan won any Olympic medal was in 1992 when the national hockey team clinched bronze by defeating the Netherlands at the Barcelona Games.
In an exclusive interview with Geo News, Arshad expressed his joy and pride in winning the gold for his country. “It was my day. I could have thrown it at a greater distance,” he said, reflecting on his performance. He credited his win to being “in the rhythm” and feeling “hopeful” throughout the competition.
Arshad also shared his wish to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day on August 14 with the gold medal, making the occasion even more special for the nation.
This historic achievement by Arshad Nadeem has not only brought glory to Pakistan but has also inspired countless athletes in the country to dream big. His triumph in Paris will be remembered as a defining moment in Pakistan’s sporting history, reigniting hope and pride among the nation’s sports enthusiasts.