Olympian finalist Arshad Nadeem receives warm welcome

Pakistan’s star Olympian finalist Arshad Nadeem landed in Pakistan and received a warm welcome after giving an outstanding performance at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.

Even though the athlete could not win a medal in the world’s biggest sports event, he has surely won the hearts of millions of Pakistanis not just in Pakistan but also around the globe with his performance. Even though Arshad had no resources to practice, he made it to the finals not just making himself on the top but also the country.

A large number of sports lovers were gathered outside the airport to welcome the star before his arrival, cheer, slogans, claps were filled in the air as he arrived.

Punjab Minister for Youth and Sports Rai Taimoor Khan Bhatti, president of the Athletics Federation Pakistan, coaches and athletes received him at the airport.

Arshad Nadeem is thankful to the sports board for recognizing him

While speaking to the media at the airport, Arshad Nadeem thanked the people for the prayers, love, and support he received.

“I got famous in the world due to people praying for me”, he stated, “I will overcome my mistakes and play the best games in future”. He added, “I worked really and came fifth”. He also promised to not disappoint his fans in the future.

The Punjab Sports Minister applauded him saying that he has made everyone proud and got Pakistan global recognition.

Government support is needed to boost sports in Pakistan

It is important to mention that Arshad had finished fifth during the javelin throw finals in the Tokyo Olympics 2020, with India’s Neeraj Chopra taking the gold medal.

He had made history at the global sports event by becoming the first-ever Pakistani athlete to qualify for the final of any track and field competition in the Olympics.

During the final round, Arshad made a throw of 82.91m on the opening attempt and 81.98m on the second. But the final throw was declared to be a foul making him stand at the fifth position.

Indian’s Neeraj Chopra won the gold with a record of 87.58meter throw in the javelin throw final. He became India’s historical first-ever track and field athlete who won the gold medal.

Cash reward

Recognizing his efforts, the Punjab government has given a cash reward for his outstanding performance in the finals.  Rai Taimur Khan and Usman Buzdar will also present cash prizes to Olympian Talha Talib and mountaineer Shehroze Kashif for being the youngest one to climb the K-2.