'Proud moment': Pakistanis rejoice Arshad Nadeem's Asian Athletics' gold

Pakistanis erupted in joy on Saturday as star javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem delivered a stellar performance to clinch gold at the Asian Athletics Championships.

While some hailed him as the greatest of all time (GOAT), others praised his unwavering dedication, noting how he continues to outperform rivals with access to far superior training facilities.

Nadeem, an Olympic gold medalist, secured his victory with a superb final throw of 86.40 metres, ending the event on a high and confirming his dominance in the competition.

The 28-year-old, who holds the Olympic record after a monstrous 92.97-metre throw at the Paris 2024 Olympics, delivered a performance just short of the Asian Championship record, which stands at 86.72 metres.

Sachin Yadav of India secured the silver medal with a best throw of 85.16 metres, while Japan’s Yuta Sakiyama earned bronze after reaching a mark of 83.75 metres.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also congratulated the athlete as he continues to make the nation proud.

In his statement, President Zardari said that Nadeem has once again brought honour to Pakistan in the javelin throw event. He praised Nadeem for delivering an excellent performance throughout the championship, including the final.

The president extended his congratulations to the entire nation on this magnificent victory by Nadeem. He added that the whole nation takes pride in Nadeem’s outstanding performance.

In a statement, the prime minister said that thanks to Nadeem’s outstanding performance, the prestige of the green and white flag has been enhanced.

He described Nadeem’s hard work, dedication, and remarkable success as an exemplary model for young athletes to follow. He also prayed for his continued success in the future.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also extended heartfelt congratulations to the Asian Athletics Championship javelin throw champion and national hero — as well as Yasir Sultan who was also in the final.

CM Maryam expressed her best wishes for the continued success of Arshad Nadeem and Yasir Sultan.

"Alhamdulillah! A wave of happiness and good news is sweeping across every field for Pakistan," she said. "Arshad Nadeem and Yasir Sultan are beacons of inspiration for our youth."

Leader of the Opposition, Omar Ayub, also congratulated the world champion, extending his congratulations to Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem for winning the gold medal.

"Arshad Nadeem’s victory is a victory for the entire nation. By winning the gold medal at the Asian Championship, Arshad Nadeem has made the entire nation proud."

Meanwhile, Pakistanis on X also extended their congratulations to the champ.