In a remarkable turn of events, Arshad Nadeem has become a national hero for Pakistan. His extraordinary performance at the Paris Olympics, where he clinched the gold medal in javelin throw, has made waves not only in his home country but across the world. Recently, Arshad and his mother, Razia Praveen, joined for an interview, shedding light on his incredible journey and future aspirations.
A Dream Realized
Winning a gold medal at the Paris Olympics is a dream come true for Arshad Nadeem. The athlete humbly acknowledged the support of the Pakistani nation and his family, attributing his success to their prayers and encouragement. “It feels surreal to have achieved this milestone,” Arshad shared. “The journey has been incredibly challenging, but with Allah’s blessings, we achieved this honor.”
Arshad’s path to Olympic glory began in 2012, although his initial passion lay in cricket. His older brother, who was involved in athletics, encouraged him to switch to the sport. This change of direction was pivotal, as Arshad soon immersed himself in various athletic events. His early foray into the sport was marked by participation in multiple events, including javelin throw, shot put, discus throw, and more.
The Early Days
Arshad’s first major competition was the Youth Festival organized by Mian Shahbaz Sharif in 2012. His participation in this festival was a turning point, as it provided him with a platform to showcase his talents. “The Youth Festival was incredibly beneficial,” he recalled. “It gave me a chance to compete and win medals in various events, which was crucial for my growth as an athlete.”
His journey continued with a significant boost when he joined WAPDA, thanks to their support, which allowed him to focus on his training. “Securing a job with WAPDA was a dream come true. It enabled me to concentrate on my training without financial worries,” Arshad explained. His coach, Fayyaz Hussain Bukhari, played a significant role in his preparation for the Tokyo Olympics, leading to a series of impressive achievements.
The Importance of Job Security for Sportsmen
Arshad Nadeem began by acknowledging the role of organizations like WADA in providing job security to athletes. For a sportsman, having a stable job is not merely about financial support; it represents a pillar of stability and encouragement. Nadeem expressed that receiving a job from such organizations is a significant benefit, as it provides essential support and motivates athletes to work harder.
He recounted a time when sports departments were being closed, which deeply troubled him. During that period, he had appealed to the then Prime Minister, wearing his distinctive green coat and tie, to reinstate sports programs in government departments. This experience underscored the critical role of such support systems in an athlete’s career.
Key Achievements
Arshad’s dedication and hard work were evident through his numerous victories. He won gold in the South Asian Games, Asian Championship, and World Islamic Games, making history by qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics in 2019. “Winning gold in the South Asian Games and qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics was a huge milestone,” Arshad said. “It marked the beginning of my journey on the global stage.”
Following the Tokyo Olympics, Arshad faced several challenges, including injuries that required surgeries. With the help of his coaches, Salman Iqbal Butt and Dr. Ali Sher Bajwa, he made a remarkable recovery. “I am grateful for the support and treatment I received,” he acknowledged. “It played a crucial role in my comeback.”
Arshad’s success continued with record-breaking performances in the Commonwealth Games and the World Islamic Games. His silver medal at the World Athletics Championships was particularly noteworthy, as it marked the first time a Pakistani athlete won a medal at this level.
Looking Ahead
Arshad is not resting on his laurels. He has ambitious plans for the future, including breaking the world record in javelin throw, which currently stands at 98.4 meters. “I plan to resume training after a brief break and aim to break the world record,” he shared. “Coaches believe in my potential, and I am determined to achieve it.”
In addition to his personal goals, Arshad is committed to giving back to his community. He plans to build a training academy in his village to nurture young talent. “I want to develop an academy to help train aspiring athletes,” he explained. “The government has shown support for such initiatives, and I hope to make a positive impact on the next generation of athletes.”
Comparisons and Reflections
When asked about comparisons with fellow athletes like Neeraj Chopra from India, Arshad emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication. “Every athlete works hard and represents their country with pride,” he said. “While differences in physical attributes might exist, dedication and training are what truly matter.”
Arshad also shared a unique detail about his gold medal celebration. The number on his gift car, 92.9, was chosen by Maryam Nawaz and reflects his record-breaking throw. “It was an honor to receive such recognition,” he noted.
The Message to the Youth
Nadeem’s journey is a testament to perseverance and dedication. He shared a powerful message with the youth of Pakistan: despite the difficulties and challenges one may face, hard work and determination can lead to success. He emphasized that the challenges and obstacles are part of the journey and that those who confront these difficulties with resilience are ultimately rewarded.
He highlighted the importance of having a coach, drawing a parallel to teachers in schools and colleges. A coach, Nadeem explained, is not just a mentor but also a crucial support figure in an athlete’s life. His own experiences, including the hardships he faced and the support he received, have strengthened his belief that success can be achieved even within Pakistan.
Staying at Homeland despite Global Offers
Nadeem has received numerous offers from international organizations and training centers, especially after his performance in the Tokyo Olympics and breaking records. Despite these tempting offers, he has chosen to remain in Pakistan, demonstrating his deep love and commitment to his homeland. Nadeem’s dedication to training within Pakistan, despite global opportunities, reflects his strong connection to his roots and his belief in the potential of local training facilities.
He believes that Pakistan has the potential to offer world-class facilities and that with continued support and improvements from the government, athletes can achieve global recognition while remaining in their home country. His message is clear: dedication and hard work, combined with the right support, can lead to significant achievements and international acclaim.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Nadeem’s story serves as an inspiration for young athletes and sports enthusiasts in Pakistan. He encourages them to stay focused and work diligently, assuring them that with perseverance and passion, they can make their mark on the world stage. His own journey from facing numerous challenges to becoming a celebrated athlete is a powerful example of what can be achieved through hard work and unwavering commitment.
Conclusion
Arshad Nadeem’s journey from a cricket player to an Olympic gold medalist is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and the support of his family and mentors. As he continues to inspire the nation with his achievements, his future plans to build a training academy and nurture young athletes reflect his commitment to the sport and his desire to give back to his community. Arshad’s story is not just about personal triumph but also about making a lasting impact on the world of athletics.
