AFP Seeks Clarification from Salman Butt on Arshad Nadeem’s Decline in Performance

The Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) has formally written to Salman Butt, coach of Olympic champion javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, seeking explanations regarding the athlete’s recent dip in performance, particularly his disappointing 10th-place finish at the World Athletics Championship in Tokyo. This comes as a stark contrast to the 28-year-old’s glorious achievement at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he made history by securing a gold medal with a record-breaking 92.97-meter throw, bringing immense pride to the nation.

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According to details, the AFP’s letter, a copy of which has been obtained by media outlets, raises several critical questions about Arshad’s training, competition schedule, and overall management since his Olympic triumph. The federation has directed Salman Butt to submit a comprehensive report by October 5, outlining the reasons behind the athlete’s decline in form and his failure to replicate past performances on the global stage.

The AFP’s decision to intervene marks a notable shift, given that following Arshad’s historic Olympic victory, the federation had distanced itself from his training and competition plans, granting both the athlete and his coach full autonomy in making decisions about his preparation and participation. Earlier this year, when the Pakistan Sports Board provided Rs10 million to the AFP for Arshad’s training, the federation declined to manage the funds, instead directing the board to transfer the amount directly to the athlete to ensure independent use.

In its letter, the AFP has specifically asked Salman to provide details of Arshad’s training regime from September 2024 to August 2025. This includes a breakdown of training activities, the names of coaches or specialists hired during this period, and a record of international competitions in which Arshad participated. The federation has also questioned why Arshad did not feature in any Diamond League meetings, which are considered critical for maintaining form and gaining exposure against top international competitors.

Moreover, Salman has been tasked with explaining whether he sought assistance from any foreign coaches or trainers in the past year, and if so, what impact their involvement had on Arshad’s development. Another key point raised by the federation is a detailed report on Arshad’s high-performance training sessions and physical fitness levels, both of which are crucial for success in elite competitions. The AFP has also sought clarification on whether Salman maintained any communication with the federation or other relevant national sports institutions over the last year regarding Arshad’s training and competitive needs.

Arshad Nadeem’s Olympic gold had placed him among Pakistan’s most celebrated athletes, igniting hopes of consistent international success and long-term dominance in javelin throwing. However, his recent underwhelming performance in Tokyo has raised concerns over training gaps, inadequate international exposure, and possible issues with fitness and preparation. The AFP’s inquiry aims to uncover whether these setbacks stem from mismanagement, lack of proper planning, or other external challenges.

The outcome of this probe will likely shape Arshad’s future preparation and determine whether closer federation oversight becomes necessary to restore his form ahead of upcoming major events. For Pakistan, which has long awaited consistent global recognition in athletics, Arshad remains a symbol of hope, and addressing the causes behind his decline is seen as essential to ensuring his return to the top of the sport.