Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan has set a new Olympic record in the javelin throw with a distance of 92.97 meters. Nadeem achieved this feat on his second attempt in the final, earning him the gold medal and breaking the previous Olympic record set by Norway's Andreas Thorkildsen at the 2008 Beijing Games. Of his four attempts, two of Nadeem’s throws went beyond 91 meters. Nadeem has received immense praise from across South Asia for his grit and determination in absence of institutional support.
This victory marks Pakistan's first Olympic medal since 1992, when the national hockey team clinched bronze by defeating the Netherlands 4-3 at the Barcelona Olympics.
India's Neeraj Chopra, the defending champion, threw 89.45 meters to win silver, while Grenada's Anderson Peters claimed bronze with a throw of 88.54 meters.
After his historic win, Nadeem expressed his satisfaction and future ambitions. "My training and hard work have paid off," the 27-year-old Pakistani athlete said. "When I released the javelin, I felt it leave my hand and sensed it could be an Olympic record, inshallah (God willing)."
Nadeem, who beat his previous best by more than two meters, revealed his aspirations to push his limits even further. "I was expecting to go even further, and I am hoping to go even further," he stated. "I will try harder to even extend my personal best to over 95 meters."
Who is Arshad Nadeem:
Hailing from Mian Channu, Nadeem is the third of seven siblings and the son of a retired construction worker who was a daily wager. Like most Pakistanis, he was initially drawn to cricket but then decided against it as it was difficult to establish himself as a cricketer. He also attempted playing football. In a recent interview, he shared that he had been training with a single, damaged javelin for the past seven years. Reflecting on his journey, Nadeem remarked, "The struggle was all worthwhile."
Nation Celebrates Historic Olympic Gold Medal
Arshad Nadeem’s monumental achievement at the Paris Olympics has sparked a wave of congratulations from Pakistan’s top leaders and national figures.
President Asif Ali Zardari praised Nadeem’s record-setting javelin throw, calling it a historic triumph that has brought immense honor to Pakistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed this sentiment, highlighting the profound sense of pride Nadeem’s victory has instilled among Pakistanis.
The Armed Forces of Pakistan, including the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and the Services Chiefs, also extended their heartfelt congratulations, celebrating Nadeem as the first Pakistani athlete to win an individual gold medal at the Olympics. They commended his dedication, perseverance, and hard work, which they believe serve as an inspiration for the nation.
Prominent political figures, including National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, and Pakistan People's Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, also recognized Nadeem’s exceptional skills and commitment, adding to the widespread national celebration of his historic win.
Netizens’ Reaction
The historic victory of Arshad Nadeem at the Paris Olympics has not only sparked national pride but also inspired a wave of humorous and joyful posts from netizens. As the first Pakistani athlete to win an individual gold medal at the Olympics, Nadeem’s achievement has been met with a flood of celebratory content on X (formerly Twitter).
Social media users have embraced the moment with a creative and lighthearted approach, sharing witty and funny posts that reflect the national euphoria. From playful memes to humorous commentary, the online community has filled the platform with laughter and celebration, showcasing the happiness and excitement that Nadeem’s record-breaking performance has brought to Pakistan.
If I had a girlfriend I would have asked her to kindly leave me for Arshad Nadeem
— rants (@rantspakistani) August 8, 2024
A user wrote, “If I had a girlfriend, I would have asked her to kindly leave me for Arshad Nadeem.”
naming my first two kids Arshad Nadeem 92.97 & Arshad Nadeem 91.79 regardless of their gender
— Amal (@brokebutimcute) August 8, 2024
Another user wrote, “naming my first two kids Arshad Nadeem 92.97 & Arshad Nadeem 91.79 regardless of their gender”.
Arshad Nadeem’s remarkable performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics has garnered admiration not only from Pakistan but also from sports enthusiasts across the globe.
Sri Lankan cricketer Lasith Malinga extended his congratulations to Nadeem and India’s Neeraj Chopra, who secured gold and silver, respectively, in the men’s javelin throw. Malinga praised both athletes, stating, “A huge applause to Arshad Nadeem and Neeraj Chopra for bringing gold and silver medals in the men’s javelin throw at the 2024 Olympics to South Asia. Your incredible achievements make the entire region proud.”
A huge applause to Arshad Nadeem🇵🇰 and Neeraj Chopra🇮🇳 for bringing gold🥇and silver🥈 medals in the men’s Javelin throw at the 2024 Olympics to South Asia.👏
— Lasith Malinga (@malinga_ninety9) August 8, 2024
Your incredible achievements make the entire region proud!💪#ArashadNadeem #NeerajChopra #Olympics2024
In a heartwarming gesture, Neeraj Chopra’s mother also expressed her admiration for Nadeem’s victory. Speaking to the media, she said, "I am happy with the silver; the boy who got gold (Arshad Nadeem) is also my child. Everyone goes there after doing a lot of hard work.” Her supportive comments have resonated with many, reflecting the spirit of sportsmanship and respect between competitors.