Arshad Nadeem’s Unforgettable Win: Pakistan’s First Olympic Gold in 40 Years

It took three long decades to achieve this victory, from 1992 to witnessing Arshad Nadeem’s historic win last night in the javelin throw final. With the power of his arms, Arshad set a remarkable record of 92.97 meters, breaking the previous Olympic record set by Andreas Thorkildsen in Beijing 2008.

This victory is a great honor for Pakistan, marking the first gold medal outside of hockey since the one won in Los Angeles in 1984.

After 40 years, Pakistan has finally achieved this honor again. Since the 1992 Cricket World Cup, Pakistan hasn’t won a medal, making Arshad’s achievement a record-breaking moment in the country’s 30-year history. After throwing the powerful javelin, Arshad immediately went into a sajda (prostration) in gratitude, symbolizing his deep connection to his faith and the journey that brought him here.

In a media interview, Arshad said, “I would like to say a special word of thanks to Dr. Ali Sher Bajwa, who helped me during surgery and rehabilitation, and to my coach Salman Butt, who ensured I came back even stronger and better.” He added that his gold medal was an “Independence Day gift for the country.”

Arshad’s journey is not just about the game; it’s about the struggle he faced and the hard work he put in to make it happen. Despite lacking adequate facilities in his country, he competed against world-class athletes trained in top-notch environments. What drove him towards his goal was his unwavering dedication and the mentorship he received from his coach, Salman Butt. In an interview, Arshad mentioned that his coach is like a father to him, a statement that truly defines the bond they share.

Standing tall at 6’5″, Arshad Nadeem has made the whole country proud.