Pakistan’s leading javelin thrower, Arshad Nadeem, is determined to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics despite his current injury. Confident in his recovery, Nadeem expressed optimism, stating, “I hope that by the middle of next month, I will be able to achieve top fitness, and, In Sha Allah, the nation will see me in the Paris Olympics.”
Although currently injured, Nadeem is focused on preparing vigorously for the Olympics, considering it his main target after missing the podium in the Tokyo Olympics. He mentioned, “I will get five to six months, which will be enough to prepare vigorously for the Olympic Games.”
Nadeem, who sustained an injury during the 34th National Games in Quetta in May 2023, underwent rehabilitation and secured a silver medal at the World Athletics Championship. Achieving an automatic qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics by throwing the javelin over 85 meters in Budapest, he is now training in his hometown of Mian Channu.
Despite the injury, Nadeem is mindful of complete healing to avoid complications during the Olympics. He affirmed, “I can play even despite injury. I also played with an injury in the World Championships in Hungary where I won a silver medal.”
Currently training in Mian Channu, Nadeem plans to intensify his rehabilitation and training at the Punjab Stadium in Lahore after returning to the provincial capital. He also expressed intentions to participate in an international event before the Olympics.
Under the coaching of Salman Butt, Nadeem holds the distinction of being the only Asian javelin thrower to surpass the 90-meter mark. The Paris Olympics Javelin event, scheduled at Stade de France, the French football team’s home ground, will feature the qualifying round on August 6 and the final on August 8.
Arshad Nadeem’s determination to overcome his injury and compete on the global stage reflects his resilience and commitment to making a mark in the prestigious Paris Olympics.
