Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s Olympic javelin throw gold medalist, has called for the government to invest in modern facilities for women athletes. Nadeem, who returned home to a hero’s welcome after winning Pakistan’s first Olympic gold since 1984, has received numerous cash prizes, cars, and other gifts. However, he believes that the government should prioritize the development of sports infrastructure and education for women.
“We badly need facilities for our women and even men to acquire higher education in our area,” Nadeem said on ARY News. “Nowadays, young athletes need to be given the best facilities.”
Nadeem, who appeared on the show with his wife Rashida, also spoke about the buffalo gifted to him by his father-in-law for winning the Olympic gold medal. “I was a bit surprised with the announcement,” he said with a smile. “My father-in-law is a very rich person and has a lot of land. If only he had given me 4-5 acres of farm land instead of the buffalo.”
Rashida revealed that she knew about Nadeem’s injury problems before the Olympics but kept it away from other family members. “When he went for the Games, I couldn’t sleep for three days,” she said. “I just kept on praying that he would remain fit and return with a gold medal.”
Nadeem’s long-time coach, Salman Butt, said the ace javelin thrower will return to training in a month’s time. “Arshad knows that he has to work harder to maintain his position,” Butt said. “There is great competition in the javelin throw in the international field.”
Nadeem’s victory has sparked a renewed interest in sports in Pakistan. He hopes that his success will inspire other young athletes, especially women, to pursue their dreams. “I want to see more women from Pakistan competing at the highest level,” he said. “We have the talent, but we need the facilities and support to succeed.”
