Lahore, Pakistan, August 12, 2024: Paris Olympics javelin gold medallist Arshad Nadeem returned to a water cannon salute and chants from thousands of supporters as he brought Pakistan’s first Olympic medal in athletics home on Sunday, August 11.
Nadeem was met by his family, including his father who placed a garland around his neck as thousands of fans chanted “Long Live Arshad Nadeem! Long Live Pakistan,” as soon as he touched down in Lahore.
The 27-year-old father of two beat defending champion Neeraj Chopra of India in the men’s javelin in Paris with an Olympic record throw of 92.97 metres.
His triumph is seen by Pakistanis as all the more impressive since Nadeem was born and raised in a mud brick house in an impoverished corner of rural Punjab. As a young man, he trained in wheat fields with homemade javelins.
President Asif Ali Zardari has announced that Nadeem would be awarded Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award, the Hilal-i-Imitiaz, for his achievement.
“I am thankful to God almighty. I thank my parents and the Pakistani nation,” Nadeem told the crowds.
Nadeem is also set to receive more than Pakistan rupees 150 million (US$538,000) from the Chief Minister of Punjab (PKR 100 million) and the Chief Minister of Sindh (PKR 50 million), plus well wishers.
In addition to financial rewards, a sports facility will be built and named after Nadeem in his hometown Khanewell.