Olympic javelin throw champion Arshad Nadeem was honored with a 10 million rupee cash prize and a brand new car by the Punjab government for his historic gold medal victory at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Recognition from the Punjab Government
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz personally visited Nadeem’s village in Mian Chunnu to present the awards. She handed over the cash prize and car keys to Nadeem, accompanied by his parents. The car features a special number plate, “92.97,” symbolizing the record-breaking distance he achieved in the javelin throw event.
“Arshad deserves everything he gets because he has brought so much joy and pride to the nation,” Maryam Nawaz said during the visit.
Special Arrangements for the Celebration
The deputy commissioner, who accompanied the Chief Minister, explained that the arrangements for the cheque and car were made promptly, following Maryam Nawaz’s instructions. She also specifically requested the custom number plate for Nadeem’s new car.
In addition to Nadeem’s rewards, his coach, Salman Iqbal Butt, received a cheque for 5 million rupees as a token of appreciation for his role in Nadeem’s success.
Historic Olympic Achievement
Arshad Nadeem made history by becoming the first track and field athlete from Pakistan to win an Olympic gold medal. His remarkable throw of 92.97 meters in the men’s javelin throw final not only secured him the gold but also set a new Olympic record.
In the same event, India’s Neeraj Chopra, the defending champion, earned the silver medal with a season’s best throw of 89.45 meters.
A Momentous Victory for Pakistan
Nadeem’s victory marked Pakistan’s first Olympic gold medal in 40 years, with the last one won by the men’s hockey team at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. His achievement has brought immense pride to the nation and serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in Pakistan.
The rewards and recognition from the Punjab government celebrate Nadeem’s exceptional talent and dedication, highlighting his contribution to Pakistani sports on the world stage.