Pakistan’s javelin star Arshad Nadeem has revealed that he competed at the Paris Olympics 2024 with an injury, adding another layer to his remarkable gold medal triumph.
Nadeem’s 92.97m throw shattered the Olympic record and secured Pakistan’s first gold medal at the Games since 1984. However, the victory came with a hidden struggle, as Nadeem disclosed during a visit to the Prime Minister’s office in Islamabad.
“Just five minutes before I had to go to the call room, I felt a pain,” Nadeem said. “I told my coach, and he said, ‘kuch nahi hota, tu sher hai (there will be no issues, you are a lion).’ I had actually picked up an injury while throwing on 21st July when we were training at Punjab Stadium.”
Despite the injury and the pressure of competing against reigning champion Neeraj Chopra of India, Nadeem maintained his composure. He credited his coach for keeping his morale high.
“During the first throw, I felt some pain and the doctor applied some medicine,” Nadeem added. “I told him I didn’t know if that would have any effect. The doctor also told me ‘tum sher ho’. Both the doctor and coach told me the same words.”
Nadeem’s injury revelation adds to the significance of his achievement. It underscores his determination and resilience, as well as the support he received from his team.
The gold medal has been met with widespread celebration in Pakistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a grand reward of PKR 150 million to Nadeem, as well as a civil award. Chief Minister of the province of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, awarded Nadeem PKR 10 million, as well as a Honda Civic Car with a specially stylized number plate reading ‘PAK 92.97’.
Nadeem’s triumph is a testament to the talent and dedication of Pakistani athletes. It is a moment of national pride and inspiration, and a reminder that even with adversity, anything is possible.
