Peshawar: Arshad Nadeem Pakistan’s star javelin thrower, has emerged as national hero due to his unwavering commitment and exceptional achievements on international stage.

As he expresses determination to qualify for the 2028 Olympics, Arshad reflects on his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Pakistan’s most celebrated athletes. Addressing a ceremony organised in his honour by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi at Governor House Peshawar, Olympian recalled that between 2016 and 2020, he collected numerous medals in international competitions, notably breaking records at the South Asian Games in Guwahati. He further said that he had dreamt of winning a medal at the previous Tokyo Olympics, for which he worked tirelessly, despite suffering from injuries along the way. The determination paid off when he secured fifth place at the Tokyo Olympics. 

Following the Tokyo Olympics, Arshad went on to say, he intensified his training, and thanked the Punjab Sports Board for providing the necessary facilities. Arshad’s breakthrough came when he recorded his first throw of over 80 meters in England, he recalled. Continuing his streak of impressive performances, he said he achieved a 90-meter throw in the third strike. Arshad said that later, he trained himself within just three days for the World Islamic Games and went on to win a medal. He also said that though time was short for preparation at the World Athletics Championships, his determination never wavered. His silver medal at the event was a major achievement, becoming the first Pakistani athlete to directly qualify for the Olympics. Arshad Nadeem told the audience he faced setbacks, including two injuries before the Olympics, but his resolve remained unbroken. “The coach said we have to win a medal,” the national hero recalled. Despite an injury on July 21 before the Paris Olympics, he trained for the best throw of his life. Having thrown thrice just a day before the Olympic qualifying round, he managed to exceed 80 meters, regaining his confidence. Arshad said that in the finals of the Paris Olympics, he remained composed and confident, delivering strong throws and eventually securing a gold medal. “I remained focused till the last throw and was successful,” Arshad remarked. 

Upon his return home, Arshad said he was greeted with overwhelming love and support from his fellow countrymen. He vowed to participate in the World Athletes Championship. “I will try hard to break my own record in the coming days,” he expressed his resolve.