Olympic javelin throw champion Arshad Nadeem expressed confidence and determination on Tuesday as he prepared to leave for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, set to take place from September 13 to 21. The 28-year-old athlete, who brought Pakistan glory with his record-breaking 92.97-metre throw at the 2024 Paris Olympics, trained at the Punjab Stadium in Lahore just before his departure, delivering throws over 85 metres and showing strong form.
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Speaking to reporters after his final practice, Arshad said his focus remains on performing at his best, leaving the rest in Godâs hands. When asked about a potential rivalry with Indiaâs Neeraj Chopra, Arshad dismissed the comparison, saying, âMy competition is always against Arshad Nadeem. I compete against myself.â Confident and composed, the Mian Channu-born star, who ended Pakistanâs 40-year Olympic gold drought, added that he is well-prepared for the global challenge in Tokyo.
Arshad will compete in the qualifying round on September 17, with the final set for September 18. Most of his top rivals from the Paris Olympics will also feature, setting up another thrilling contest. While he missed two Diamond League events in Poland and Switzerland due to fitness concerns, Arshad recovered after rehabilitation in England under Dr Ali Sher Bajwa. His recent gold medal win at the Asian Athletics Championship in South Korea with an 86.40-metre throw had already proven his resilience.
âYesterday, Arshad passed all the fitness tests. It is good news that he has fully recovered from his calf injury,â said Dr Asad Abbas Shah, confirming his readiness for the upcoming competition.
Arshad expressed gratitude to the nation and media for their unwavering support and asked for continued prayers as he aims to once again lift Pakistanâs flag with pride. He also received a significant boost as the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) awarded him an Olympic scholarship. POA president Arif Saeed personally handed Arshad the scholarship during his training session, granting him $1,125 per month for 36 months leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Arshad thanked the POA for the support, saying the scholarship would help him prepare better for future competitions, particularly the Los Angeles Games. With his focus, form, and faith, Arshad Nadeem heads to Tokyo carrying not just his javelin but also the hopes of a nation eager to see its champion shine again on the world stage.
