Arshad Nadeem’s Mother’s Statement: Arshad Nadeem’s mother has promised a big celebration in their village when he returns home. She mentioned this while speaking with media representatives.
Celebration in Karachi: After winning Pakistan’s first individual gold medal at the Paris Olympics, javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem was celebrated by many people in Karachi. This 27-year-old athlete ended Pakistan’s 40-year wait for an Olympic gold medal with a record throw of 92.97 meters. Pakistan’s last gold medal was in hockey at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
Excitement in Karachi: The atmosphere in Karachi was similar to the celebrations after Pakistan’s cricket team won a World Cup or Champions Trophy. Young people celebrated by honking car horns in the streets, waving posters of Nadeem and Pakistan flags. Nadeem, who comes from a rural area in Punjab’s Khanewal, had previously won gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and silver at last year’s World Championships.
Recognition and Rewards: As soon as Nadeem’s gold medal was confirmed, social media was flooded with congratulatory messages. India’s former champion Neeraj Chopra won the silver medal with a throw of 89.45 meters. Karachi’s mayor, Murtaza Wahab, announced a cash prize of ₹5 crore from the Sindh government for Nadeem. Wahab also said that a grand welcome ceremony would be held in Karachi when Nadeem returns.
Mother’s Joy: Nadeem’s mother told media in their village that there would be a big celebration when he comes back home. She said, “He has made us and Pakistan proud on the world stage, and I can only pray for him.”
Challenges Faced: Nadeem went to Paris despite struggling with elbow and knee injuries and limited training facilities. He had to request a new javelin from his government because his old one was damaged.
Support from Sports Figures: Former Pakistan cricket captain Rashid Latif said that Nadeem’s achievement would serve as a major inspiration for young athletes. He believes that young people will now take an interest in sports beyond just cricket.
Comment from Ayaz Mahmood: Ayaz Mahmood, a member of Pakistan’s hockey team that won gold at the Los Angeles Olympics, expressed disbelief and admiration for Nadeem’s achievement. He noted that while the hockey team struggled to qualify for the Olympics, Nadeem raised Pakistan’s flag high in these games.