LAHORE – Arshad Nadeem, who brought glory to Pakistan in the javelin throw at the Paris Olympics, revealed that he cannot sleep after seeing the love of the nation, because he is happy.
Arshad Nadeem said that he had worked hard for the Paris Olympics 2024 after the Tokyo Olympics.
The national hero made this closure while talking in morning show of a private TV on Monday.
He said that he played his first international event in 2016, and on August 8, he reaped the fruits of his hard work.
Arshad gave due credit to his coach, by saying that Salman Butt, supported him greatly and never let him lose hope. The fielding was excellent, and he had trained hard.
“I was confident that I will win the gold medal this time,” said Arshad, adding that that he had broken the 90-meter record at the Commonwealth Games in 2022. He always strived to do better.
During his first throw, when the runner-up was a bit off, he fouled to avoid injury and then made a strong effort on the next throw which resulted in a record throw by God’s grace.
Continuing, he said that when he threw 92 meters on his second attempt, he was 90% sure that the gold was his. However, since world champions were also competing, he kept working hard until the last moment, and his efforts were rewarded.
He noted that he had two injuries after knee surgery, but his coach and physiotherapist worked hard, and he thanked both of them. He also thanked the entire nation for the immense love and support.
Discussing his friendship with Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, Arshad Nadeem said that while he and Chopra are good friends, everyone strives for their own country when they are in the field.
When asked about government support, Nadeem thanked the government, the Punjab Sports Board, and the federation for their support. He also highlighted the significant role of WAPDA in his career, providing him with support and a job.
When asked about javelin throw, Nadeem said there were some issues and some were not, but he thanked everyone.
He expressed his happiness at the warm welcome he received from the entire nation, mentioning that people from nearby villages gathered when he reached his own village, which was a joyous sight.
As for the first phone call after winning the gold medal, Nadeem said he called his mother first and spoke to his family, who were all very happy.
Talking about the rewards, Nadeem said that people are still coming to take photos with him, and since they are showing so much love and affection, it’s only right to take pictures with them.
