Pakistan’s javelin star recognised for historic Paris Olympics performance
DUBAI: Pakistan’s Olympic javelin champion Arshad Nadeem has been awarded the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Sports Award in the Global Breakthrough Athlete category at the World Sports Summit in Dubai.
Nadeem earned the accolade for his record-breaking performance at the Paris Olympics, where he threw 92.97 metres to win gold, setting a new Olympic and world record. His throw surpassed the previous mark held by Norway’s Andreas Thorkildsen for 16 years and secured Pakistan’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in javelin throw.
Pride and inspiration for Pakistan
Speaking at the ceremony, Nadeem described the award as a “proud moment” for himself and for Pakistan. He said the recognition on a global stage would inspire young athletes and bring greater attention to javelin throw in the country.
“The encouragement I have received here strengthens an athlete’s belief. Confidence and motivation are what a sportsman needs most,” Nadeem said, adding that such recognition pushes athletes to aim higher.
Future goals
Looking ahead, Nadeem said he aims to win gold medals for Pakistan at the 2026 Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games. He plans to resume formal training in January and will compete with the clear goal of winning gold rather than merely participating.
Nadeem expressed gratitude to the Dubai government for the honour, stating that sharing the stage with international sports stars was a source of pride for Pakistan.
About the award
Established in 2008, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Sports Award recognises outstanding achievements and contributions in sports worldwide. This year, Nadeem was the only Pakistani athlete represented at the summit, which brought together leading figures from the global sports industry.
