An Exclusive Interview with Pakistan’s Javelin Star Arshad Nadeem By Sajjad Parvez
In a country that breathes cricket and sings in the rhythm of bat and ball, Arshad Nadeem threw a different arc into our collective consciousness. At 92.97 meters, his javelin did more than travel distance—it carried the hopes of a nation and the grit of a boy from Mian Channu. We sat down with the Olympian for an exclusive conversation that journeyed from dusty schoolyards to global podiums.
Humble Beginnings in Mian Channu
SP: Let’s rewind the clock a little. A young Arshad in Mian Channu—was javelin always the dream?
AN: Not at all. I played everything—cricket, football, volleyball, badminton. I even competed in long jump, shot put, triple jump, discus—you name it. I was just a kid who loved sports. But it was my elder brother and coach, Mr. Murshid Ahmed Saqi, who guided me toward javelin. He said, “You’ve got the height. This is your game.” That’s when I started taking it seriously.
From Homemade Javelins to the World Stage
SP: It’s amazing to think someone who started with local and even handmade javelins ended up standing on international podiums.
AN: I made my first javelin myself and practiced in my school yard. There were no proper grounds. We made do with what we had—a small setup at home. I officially joined WAPDA in 2015, and that’s when the journey really began. Only two months before the Olympics did I get to train with international-standard javelins.
The Moment of Glory SP:
SP: Let’s talk about Tokyo. That historic throw—92.97 meters. Did you know as soon as it left your hand?
AN: Yes. The moment I released it, I knew. I was targeting 90 meters, and when it landed, I thought: “This is big.” That distance was more than just numbers—it was history.
SP: You beat the previous record by a good margin.
AN: Yes, the last Olympic record was 90.57m. Mine was nearly 2.5m more. And I didn’t stop there. My last throw was 91.79m. I fought till the very end.
Respect Over Riches:
SP: LAwards and recognition must have followed. What mattered the most?
AN: Without a doubt, the love from the people of Pakistan. That’s the biggest award. I received a buffalo from my father-in-law—that’s tradition in our culture and it makes me smile. The Chief of Army Staff also gifted me a plot in DHA Multan. But the real prize? Seeing my country’s flag raised because of my efforts.
Behind the Scenes: The Grind
SP: What does your training regimen look like?
AN: It’s structured across the week—gym, speed work, medicine ball throws, weight training, hurdle drills. We do javelin throws twice a week. It’s not just about power; it’s about technique, timing, and discipline.
Looking Ahead: Paris and Beyond
SP: What’s next on the horizon?
AN: Right now, I’m preparing for the Asian Athletics Championship and the World Athletics Championship in Japan. My sights are set on the Paris Olympics too—I’ve already qualified. But my goal isn’t just to participate—I want to win, and maybe one day, break the world record.
Giving Back to the Nation
SP: You’ve become a role model. Do you see yourself mentoring the next generation?
AN: Absolutely. My younger brother, Muhammad Ali, trains with me. I want to help more young athletes rise. I’ve been given a platform, and I want to use it to lift others.
SP: Before we end—what would you like to say to the people of Pakistan?
AN: I’m grateful for the prayers, the love, the support. It’s not easy to make a name in the world. Behind every medal is years of sweat and sacrifice—not just mine, but also my coach Salman Khabar Barth’s and my family’s. I just want to say: keep believing in your athletes. Pray for us. Support us. And InshAllah, we will continue to bring glory to Pakistan.
