Arshad Nadeem departs for Japan to compete in World Athletics Championships

LAHORE: Pakistan’s Olympic gold medalist javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem departed for Japan on Tuesday to take part in the World Athletics Championships.

Nadeem flew out from Allama Iqbal International Airport alongside his coach, Salman Butt, after completing a final training session at Punjab Stadium earlier in the day.

Speaking ahead of his departure, the star athlete expressed confidence in his preparations and vowed to give his all on the global stage.

“Preparations have gone well, and I am determined to give my best,” Nadeem said. “After my surgery in England, I underwent intensive training in Lahore to get back in top shape.”

Arshad Nadeem underwent a crucial muscle surgery in Cambridge in July after sustaining a calf injury that had forced him to withdraw from an event in Switzerland.

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Doctors discovered partial muscle damage, which required immediate surgical intervention.

His rehabilitation was overseen in London by renowned specialist Dr. Ali Bajwa before he returned to Pakistan last month.

Since then, Nadeem has gradually built up from light rehabilitation drills to full-scale training, including throwing practice.

The javelin thrower will be in action in the qualifying round of the World Athletics Championships on September 17, with the final scheduled for the following day.

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Arshad Nadeem returns to Pakistan after surgery in UK

Pakistan’s ace Javelin thrower, Arshad Nadeem, returned home on Tuesday after successfully undergoing shin surgery in the United Kingdom (UK).

The Olympic medalist was undergoing an intensive rehabilitation program in England. Dr. Ali Sher Bajwa performed Arshad Nadeem’s shin surgery in Cambridge, England.

Arshad Nadeem will start training in Lahore in a few days, as per the doctor’s instructions. The 28-year-old will prepare for the World Athletics Championships to be held next month.

Due to rehab, Arshad was ruled out of the upcoming Diamond League due to his fitness issues.

Following this, Dr. Bajwa revealed Arshad’s injury involved partial muscle damage and required immediate medical intervention.

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The star javelin thrower’s medical team had advised him against participating in the elite event due to his rehabilitation from a serious leg injury.

It is noteworthy to mention that Arshad Nadeem made a triumphant start to this year with a gold in an 86.40m throw at the Asian Athletics Championship held in May in Gumi, South Korea.

In June, Nadeem was named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia List for stellar display at the Olympics.

Last year, the 28-year-old made headlines after creating history at the Paris Olympics with a record-breaking 92.97-metre throw to win Pakistan’s first-ever athletics gold.

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Arshad Nadeem provides rehab update post multiple surgeries

Pakistan’s star javelin thrower, Arshad Nadeem, has provided an update on his rehabilitation programme after undergoing multiple surgeries in the United Kingdom (UK).

The Olympic Gold Medalist was planning to travel to England this month for preparations for the World Championships, before featuring in the Diamond League competition in Silesia and Poland in August.

However, he underwent multiple surgeries on his calf muscle to address a longstanding injury.  The surgery was conducted by renowned sports surgeon Dr Ali Sher Bajwa in Cambridge, who diagnosed partial damage to Arshad’s calf muscle.

Arshad Nadeem has expressed confidence in his participation in the Athletics competition.

“I underwent four surgeries, and my rehab is ongoing. There’s only a month and a half left until the World Athletics Championship. I am training and hoping to be able to participate,” said Arshad Nadeem.

“I request the nation to pray for my quick recovery,” he added.

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Regarding his participation in the event, Arshad Nadeem said that he is trying his best to feature in the forthcoming event.

“There’s not much time left before the World Athletics Championship, and I can’t say for sure whether I’ll be able to take part or not, but I am trying my best to compete at all costs.”

“I’m very thankful to the Pakistani media who have supported me a lot,” Arshad Nadeem concluded.

Arshad Nadeem made a triumphant start to this year with a gold in an 86.40m throw at the Asian Athletics Championship held in May in Gumi, South Korea.

In June, Nadeem was named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia List for stellar display at the Olympics.

Last year, the 28-year-old made headlines after creating history at the Paris Olympics with a record-breaking 92.97-metre throw to win Pakistan’s first-ever athletics gold.

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Arshad Nadeem begins rehab after successful surgery in UK

Pakistan’s star javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has officially begun his rehabilitation programme after undergoing successful muscle surgery in the United Kingdom (UK) earlier this week.

The surgery was conducted by renowned sports surgeon Dr Ali Sher Bajwa in Cambridge, who diagnosed partial damage to Arshad’s calf muscle, an injury that had been bothering the Olympic champion for some time.

The decision to skip the recent international meet in Switzerland turned out to be a wise one, allowing early diagnosis and timely treatment.

Arshad Nadeem has now started light walking as part of the initial rehab phase.

Dr Bajwa is closely monitoring the recovery process and is expected to conduct a follow-up check-up next week to determine the timeline for resuming full training.

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For now, Arshad’s rehab will consist of controlled walking and basic exercises. His return to training will be phased and gradual, depending on how his body responds in the coming weeks.

Coach Salman Iqbal Butt and the medical team remain optimistic about a smooth and complete recovery, keeping a close eye on progress.

Arshad Nadeem has been in top form over the past year, having made history at the Paris Olympics with a record-breaking 92.97-metre throw to win Pakistan’s first-ever athletics gold.

He followed it up with another golden performance at the Asian Athletics Championship, throwing 86.40 metres.

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Arshad Nadeem undergoes successful muscle surgery in UK

Pakistan’s star javelin thrower, Arshad Nadeem, has successfully undergone muscle surgery in the United Kingdom (UK), marking a crucial step in his recovery from a lingering calf injury that recently forced him to miss competition.

The surgery was carried out under the supervision of renowned UK-based specialist Dr Ali Bajwa in Cambridge, where medical experts identified partial damage to the 28-year-old’s calf muscle that required immediate surgical intervention.

With the procedure now complete, Nadeem has entered the rehabilitation and physiotherapy phase, with his medical team and coach Salman Iqbal Butt hopeful of a smooth and timely recovery.

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The reigning Olympic champion had pulled out of a recent international event in Switzerland as a precaution, following recurring discomfort in his leg.

The decision to rest and properly assess the injury proved timely, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.

Arshad Nadeem has been in sensational form over the past year. He made history at the Paris Olympics by smashing the javelin record with a monstrous 92.97-metre throw to secure Pakistan’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics.

He followed it up with another gold at the Asian Athletics Championship last month with a throw of 86.40 metres.

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Here’s why Arshad Nadeem withdraws from World Athletics Silver Tour

LAHORE: Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem has opened up on his decision to withdraw from the forthcoming World Athletics Silver Tour, scheduled to begin on 15 July in Switzerland. 

The World Athletics Silver Tour is a series of top‑level track & field competitions. The silver level is one of the event’s categories, positioned below the Gold Level and above the Bronze and Challenger levels.

While interacting with the media, Arshad revealed the reason behind his decision.

“I’ve decided to withdraw from the Switzerland event due to a strain in my calf that I experienced during training here,” Nadeem told reporters.

“I don’t want the strain to worsen, so this decision is in the interest of my long-term fitness,” he added.

The Gold Medalist emphasized the World Championship slated to commence in Japan this year, stating that he is leaving for London in a few days.

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“My entire focus is on the World Championship, which will be held in Tokyo this September. I’m leaving for London on July 14 to resume training in a more suitable environment,” Arshad Nadeem said.

“The heat in Pakistan is extreme right now, and with the onset of the rainy season, training conditions have become difficult. In this weather, there’s always a risk of injury, which is what happened with my calf,” the 28-year-old said.

Arshad Nadeem mentioned the weather of England, along with upgraded facilities, in a bid to prepare for the forthcoming event.

“England will offer pleasant weather and better recovery facilities, which are crucial at this stage. Coach Salman Iqbal Butt will be accompanying me, and together we’ll prepare for the upcoming challenges.”

“I believe the quality of training and recovery in England will prepare me well for both the Diamond League and the World Championship,” he concluded.

For the unversed, Arshad Nadeem made headlines around the world last year after his gold-medal performance at the Paris Olympics, where he stunned the field with a record-breaking 92.97-metre throw, shattering the previous Olympic mark and etching his name in sporting history.

That throw not only made him the first Pakistani athlete to win Olympic gold in track and field but also the only South Asian javelin thrower to cross the 90-metre barrier.

His recent victory at the Asian Championships also carried historical significance. Arshad became the first Pakistani in over five decades to secure gold at the continental event.

The last time Pakistan won a javelin title at the Asian level was in 1973, when Allah Ditta and Muhammad Younis triumphed in the javelin and 800m events, respectively, in the Philippines.

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Arshad Nadeem’s position in World Athletics Rankings revealed

Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem continues to stand tall among the world’s elite javelin throwers, securing fourth position in the latest global rankings released by World Athletics on Saturday.

With 1370 points to his name, Arshad finds himself among the sport’s finest, despite competing in just one ranking event this year.

The Mian Channu-born athlete clinched gold at the Asian Athletics Championships in Bangkok last month with a throw of 86.40 metres, marking his only competitive appearance so far this season.

His limited outings have impacted his ability to climb higher in the rankings, but opportunities remain.

Arshad Nadeem is expected to feature in two to three international events ahead of the World Athletics Championships in September—tournaments that could prove crucial in boosting his rating and form heading into the biggest meets of the year.

India’s Neeraj Chopra, Arshad’s long-time rival on the international circuit, currently sits at the top of the javelin rankings with 1445 points.

He is followed closely by Grenada’s Anderson Peters (1431) and Germany’s Julian Weber (1407). Czech Republic’s Jakub Vadlejch (1346) and Kenya’s Julius Yego (1314) round off the top six.

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On the women’s side, Japan’s Haruka Kitaguchi leads with 1405 points, ahead of Serbia’s Adriana Vilagos (1351), South Africa’s Jo-Ane du Plessis (1318), and Greece’s Elina Tzengko (1309).

Arshad’s current ranking is another reminder of his incredible rise over the last few years.

He made headlines around the world last year after his gold-medal performance at the Paris Olympics, where he stunned the field with a record-breaking 92.97-metre throw, shattering the previous Olympic mark and etching his name in sporting history.

That throw not only made him the first Pakistani athlete to win Olympic gold in track and field but also the only South Asian javelin thrower to cross the 90-metre barrier.

His recent victory at the Asian Championships also carried historical significance. Arshad became the first Pakistani in over five decades to secure gold at the continental event.

The last time Pakistan won a javelin title at the Asian level was in 1973, when Allah Ditta and Muhammad Younis triumphed in the javelin and 800m events, respectively, in the Philippines.

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Arshad Nadeem eyes World Athletics Championship glory after Forbes honour

Pakistan’s Olympic hero Arshad Nadeem has set his sights firmly on the World Athletics Championship, scheduled for September, declaring it his next big goal following a golden comeback at the Asian Athletics Championship and global recognition via Forbes.

Speaking during a training session at Punjab Stadium in Lahore, Arshad reflected on his recent achievements, including his inclusion in the Forbes 30 Under 30 – South Asia 2025 list, calling it a proud moment for the entire nation.

“Whenever Pakistan’s name shines because of me, it fills me with joy,” said Arshad.

“I always strive to win more medals and bring honour to my country. Being included in Forbes 30 Under 30 is not just my achievement; it belongs to all Pakistanis.”

Arshad Nadeem, who made history by winning Pakistan’s first-ever individual Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games last year, is now gearing up for a packed schedule leading into the World Championships.

“Training has resumed, and I’ll participate in two to three competitions before the World Championship,” he said.

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“We’re also planning sessions in England. I’m working hard to correct the mistakes I made during the Asian Championship.”

The Asian Athletics Championship gold, which ended Pakistan’s 50-year wait for continental glory, was a significant milestone in his comeback after injury setbacks. However, Arshad Nadeem is not stopping there.

His coach Salman Iqbal Butt confirmed an intense training and competition itinerary ahead of the Worlds.

“We’ve submitted Arshad’s entry for a meet in Switzerland and are planning a one-month camp in England,” said Butt.

“He’ll also feature in the final Diamond League event in Poland before heading to the World Championship. Our goal is to keep him in peak shape.”

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PCB chairman hails Arshad Nadeem’s gold medal win at Asian Athletics Championship

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has extended heartfelt congratulations to Arshad Nadeem after he clinched gold in the javelin final at the Asian Athletics Championship in Gumi, South Korea.

Arshad Nadeem, while competing internationally for the first time since last year’s Paris Olympics, has once again made the nation proud.

He clinched the gold medal at the Asian Athletics Championship with a stunning throw of 86.40 meters in the men’s javelin throw final.

In a statement brimming with national pride, Naqvi lauded Arshad’s achievement, calling it a moment of honour for the entire nation.

“Well done, Arshad Nadeem, well done! We are proud of you,” said Naqvi.

He also congratulated Arshad’s coach and family, acknowledging the role they played behind the scenes.

“Arshad is a true son of the soil, and once again, he has made every Pakistani hold their head high with pride,” Mohsin Naqvi added.

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The Olympic champion started off with throws of 75.64m and 76.80m in his first two attempts, gradually building momentum before hitting his peak in the final round.

Meanwhile, the PCB Chairman highlighted the immense joy his victory has brought to the people of Pakistan.

“This victory is a result of sheer hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment,” said Naqvi.

He went on to say that the entire nation is overjoyed by this historic feat and proud of Arshad, one of Pakistan’s most gifted athletes.

“Arshad has truly won hearts by making Pakistan’s flag fly high in South Korea,” the PCB chief stated.

Mohsin Naqvi also emphasised the significance of defeating top athletes from countries like India to win the championship.

“Beating athletes from India and other nations and winning the title is a massive honour for Pakistan,” he said.

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Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem honored with Asian Athlete of the year award

Pakistan’s star javelin thrower and Olympic medalist Arshad Nadeem has been honoured with the prestigious Best Asian Athlete award by the Asian Athletics Association.

The award was presented during the Association’s meeting held in South Korea.

On this occasion, the Chairman of South Asian Athletics, Major General (R) Muhammad Akram Sahi, attended the event alongside the President of the Athletics Federation of Pakistan, Brigadier (R) Wajahat Hussain Sahi.

Secretary Colonel (R) Shah Jehan and Salman Iqbal Butt were also in attendance at the ceremony.

Arshad Nadeem announced on the social media platform X that he has received the accolade.

“Today, I was honoured to receive the ‘best male athlete of Asia’ award by Asian Athletics. I am humbled and recharged to give better performances,” the caption read.

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Last year, Arshad Nadeem was awarded the second-highest civil award of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Hilal-e-Imtiaz, by the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, for his ground-breaking performance in the Paris Olympics 2024.

For the unversed, Arshad Nadeem ended Pakistan’s 32-year medal drought in the Olympics and became the first-ever individual Olympic gold medalist from the country.

Before that, Pakistan last won a medal in the Olympics during the 1992 Summer Games in Barcelona

In the javelin throw event, Arshad failed to make a mark in his first attempt, however, he made a remarkable recovery with 92.97m in his second attempt, a new Olympic record, which was eventually proved sufficient for him to secure the gold at the Paris Olympics.

Meanwhile, India’s Neeraj Chopra secured the silver medal with an 89.45m throw in his second attempt, while all of his other attempts were deemed as “No Throw”.

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