Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s celebrated javelin thrower, has become a national icon after his historic gold medal victory at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. His record-breaking throw of 92.97m ended Pakistan’s long wait for an Olympic gold medal.
Upon his return to Pakistan, Nadeem has been showered with accolades and rewards. The Punjab government recently honored him with a cash prize of 10 million Pakistani rupees and a brand-new car. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz personally visited Nadeem’s village to present him with the awards.
“Arshad deserves everything he gets because he has brought so much joy and pride to the nation,” Nawaz said.
However, the celebrations have been marred by controversy. Former hockey player Rao Saleem Nazim alleged that the Pakistan government withdrew invitations to several Olympians for the gala dinner hosted in Nadeem’s honor.
Nazim, who heads the former Pakistan hockey players forum, claimed that the PM House had initially sent invitations to hockey stalwarts but later withdrew them due to guest management issues.
“Is this how you show respect to players who have brought not one but several Olympic medals in hockey for the country?” Nazim questioned.
Pakistan’s last Olympic gold medal came in 1983 in hockey, and the last time the country won any medal in the Summer Games was also through hockey in 1992. The Pakistan hockey team has not qualified for the last three Olympic Games.
Despite the controversy, Nadeem’s achievement has brought immense joy and pride to Pakistan. His victory has inspired a new generation of athletes and has reignited the nation’s passion for sports.
