Sports
Arshad Nadeem showered with awards, honors after historic win at Paris Olympics 2024
Govt has announced to give him grand reception at the Lahore airport after his return from Paris
Lahore: Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s javelin throw gold medalist at the Paris Olympics, has been overwhelmed with a wave of rewards and honors, alongside a significant rise in his social media following.
After making history in the Paris Olympics, Arshad Nadeem has received recognition and rewards from various quarters, including the Government of Pakistan, provincial administrations, celebrities, and prominent individuals. Numerous sponsors have also expressed keen interest in collaborating with the Olympian, further adding to his accolades.
The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) has announced a prize of $50,000 for gold medalists at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
In Pakistan, the Punjab government has taken the lead in honoring the national hero, announcing a reward of 100 million rupees.
Additionally, they have committed to establishing a sports city named after Arshad Nadeem in his hometown. Punjab Governor Sardar Salim Haider Khan also announced a personal reward of 2 million rupees and extended an invitation for Arshad Nadeem to visit the Governor House.
The Sindh government, recognizing the magnitude of his accomplishment, has pledged a reward of 50 million rupees. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab further honored Arshad by announcing the establishment of a sports academy in Karachi that will bear his name. Sukkur’s Mayor went a step further, promising to crown the Olympian with a gold crown.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori added to the accolades by announcing a reward of 2 million rupees for Arshad Nadeem.
The support for Arshad Nadeem extended beyond the realm of government. Renowned singer Ali Zafar, in a heartfelt social media post, pledged 1 million rupees to Arshad through his foundation, in recognition of his historic victory. The Karachi Press Club also announced that Arshad Nadeem would be granted honorary membership, further cementing his status as a national icon.
Private enterprises joined in the celebration, with TV channel owner Salman Iqbal offering Arshad Nadeem an apartment. Cricketer Ahmed Shehzad announced a reward of 1 million rupees, and another private TV channel also pledged the same amount. In addition, Pakistan Gas and Oil promised a lifetime supply of free petrol to the Olympic champion.
Arshad Nadeem’s remarkable achievement is a beacon of hope for Pakistan, a country that has not seen an Olympic medal since 1992, when the hockey team secured a bronze. The last time Pakistan won a gold medal at the Olympics was in 1984, also in hockey.
Arshad Nadeem’s success is a reminder of what can be achieved through dedication and perseverance, bringing pride and joy to a nation in need of heroes.