Paris (Web Desk/Agencies): In a historic feat, javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem secured a gold medal for Pakistan at the 2024 Paris Olympics, ending the country’s 32-year wait for an Olympic medal.
Arshad’s stunning performance in the men’s javelin throw final came in his second attempt with a mammoth throw of 92.97m, which is also a new Olympics record.
The previous best throw at Olympics was set by Andreas Thordkilsen of Norway, who hurled the javelin at a distance of 90.57 metres during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
This victory marks Pakistan’s first Olympic gold since 1992, when the national hockey team won bronze in Barcelona.
Arshad, whose first attempt was declared as ‘No Throw’ following a fumble, had been consistent in his all next attempts. He hit 88.72m on third attempt, his fourth throw landed at 79.40, his fifth at 84.87m, while in the last attempt he hurled the javelin at 91.79m.
Meanwhile, India’s Neeraj Chopra who was defending his title earned silver medal with a throw of 89.45m.
Hailing from Mian Channu, a small town in Punjab, Arshad’s journey to Olympic glory has been marked by sheer grit, determination, and relentless hard work. Despite limited resources and training facilities, he has risen to become one of the world’s elite javelin throwers.
“Winning gold medal is a dream come true, not just for me, but for every Pakistani,” said an emotional Arshad in a post-event interview.
“I hope this victory inspires the youth of our country to aim high and believe in their potential “