Tag: Arshad Nadeem

DOHA: Neeraj Chopra, India’s Olympic gold medal-winning athlete, believes that the recent tensions between India and Pakistan will affect the bond he had with his counterpart from across the border, Arshad Nadeem

The tensions between India and Pakistan reached fever-pitch following an attack last month in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) town of Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists.

However, the situation returned to normal after an immediate ceasefire on 10 May, following days of deadly jet fighter, missile, drone, and artillery attacks.

While speaking to Al Jazeera, Neeraj Chopra emphasized the impact of the conflict between India and Pakistan, stating that his friendship with Nadeem would not return to how it was before the tensions.

“It will not be like it was before [the recent escalations],” he said.

Neeraj Chopra further shared insights on his bond with Arshad Nadeem, mentioning the respect they had for between them.

“I never had a very deep friendship with him, but we were always respectful towards each other,” said Chopra.

Despite the distance due to recent conflict, Chopra aims to maintain a respectful demeanour towards Arshad Nadeem.

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“I have a lot of friends in the athletics circuit since javelin throwers are a very small community,” Chopra said.

“I will always reciprocate the respect I receive from my fellow athletes,” he concluded.

It is pertinent to mention that both men’s javelin athletes have been recognized globally for overlooking the decades-old South Asian rivalry with their friendly interactions at international tournaments.

Neeraj Chopra also faced backlash for inviting Arshad Nadeem to the 24 May Classic javelin event in India following the Pahalgam attack.

Nadeem declined the extended invitation and cited his preparation for the upcoming Asian Athletics Championship in South Korea, slated to be held from 27 to 31 May.

The cross-border escalation led to the postponement of Chopra’s event. Before that, the 27-year-old Indian athlete released a statement on April 25, saying that Nadeem’s participation at the meet was “completely out of the question” following the Pahalgam attack.

However, it is not evident when both athletes will face each other as Arshad Nadeem is not participating at the Doha Diamond League, while Neeraj Chopra is set to skip the Asian Athletics Championships in South Korea.

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Pakistan’s Olympic hero Arshad Nadeem has reportedly turned down an invitation from India’s golden boy Neeraj Chopra to participate in the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic, scheduled for May 24 in Bengaluru.

As per media reports, Nadeem expressed his gratitude in a formal letter to Chopra, acknowledging the gesture but declining the invitation due to a busy schedule.

“This year’s training and events have already been finalised, leaving no room for additional engagements,” Nadeem reportedly mentioned in his message.

He also wished the event great success and appreciated Chopra’s efforts to grow the sport globally.

The Neeraj Chopra Classic is expected to feature some of the biggest names in javelin, including world champions Anderson Peters and Julius Yego, 2016 Olympic gold medalist Thomas Röhler, and American thrower Curtis Thompson.

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Chopra, who won India’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics at Tokyo 2020, is aiming to make the event an annual fixture to promote the sport regionally.

While fans were hoping to see another face-off between the two javelin icons, Arshad Nadeem is instead focused on his preparations for the Asian Athletics Championships in South Korea, set to begin on May 27.

Arshad and Neeraj have shared podiums and mutual respect over the years, with their rivalry peaking at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Arshad stunned the world at the Paris Olympics with a historic 92.97m throw to become the first Pakistani to win an individual Olympic gold medal, out-throwing the defending champion Chopra and setting a new Olympic record.

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

The President conferred the civil award upon Arshad Nadeem during a special ceremony held in recognition of his prominent performance in sports.

Earlier, on August 10, President Zardari approved the civil award for javelin champion under Article 259 (2) of the Constitution, President Secretariat Press Wing said in a press release.

Under the constitutional provision, the president can confer Pakistani citizens with civil awards in recognition of their meritorious services in different fields of life.

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Hilal-e-Imtiaz is Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award, given to both civilians and military personnel for exceptional contributions.

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.

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.

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Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah hosted Javelin thrower and Olympian Champion Arshad Nadeem at the CM House, honouring his historic achievements and stressing the importance of securing more gold medals to motivate the nation.

Murad Shah highlighted the potential of Pakistan’s 240 million population, suggesting the country should aspire to win at least 24 gold medals on the international stage.

Nadeem is our national pride, said the CM. “You [Arshad Nadeem] have made history and act as a role model for the youth of our country,” he said and added, “his victory on the international stage shows that determination overcomes all shortcomings and obstacles.”

When Arshad Nadeem arrived at the CM house with Minister P&D Nasir Shah the provincial cabinet session was in progress, which the CM temporarily stopped to personally welcome the Gold Medallist.

The CM along with his cabinet members warmly welcomed Nadeem and applauded his record-breaking throw of 92.97 meters, a remarkable achievement that inspired people all over the world.

CM Shah recalled watching Arshad Nadeem’s historic win with the nation. “It was a night to remember. We couldn’t stop discussing your incredible performance with friends and family,” he told Nadeem.

Nadeem expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister for his support and encouragement. He mentioned how the congratulatory phone call he received from the Sindh CM at Parishad motivated him to strive for even greater accomplishments.

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Nadeem proudly showcased his Olympic Gold Medal during the meeting, kindling pride and a strong sense of national accomplishment in the room. Cabinet members applauded enthusiastically and congratulated Nadeem.

In recognition of Nadeem’s remarkable achievements, CM Murad Ali Shah awarded him Rs50 million and traditional Sindhi gifts such as an Ajrak, cap, khes, and other memorabilia.

Minister P&D Nasir Shah gifted a car to Arshad Nadeem’s mother, appreciating her for nurturing such a brave and skilled son. Additionally, Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon committed to providing a premium number plate for the car.

Minister for Local Government Saeed Ghani declared that an important road in Karachi would be named after the star athlete, commemorating his national contributions. Minister for Sports Sardar Mohammad Bux Maher also handed Nadeem a cheque, both from his department and his personal funds.

Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has already announced the establishment of a sports academy in honour of Arshad Nadeem.

Commitment to Sports: At the end of the reception, CM Murad Ali Shah reassured Arshad Nadeem of his steadfast support. “You are only a phone call away,” he told Nadeem. “Whenever you need anything or have suggestions for promoting sports in the province, I am here to help.”

Arshad Nadeem expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister for his ongoing support and his dedication to Nadeem’s accomplishments.

The event concluded with a commitment to boosting sports in Pakistan, inspired by Nadeem’s remarkable achievements.

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KARACHI: Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori announced the Sitara-e-Imtiaz for Arshad Nadeem’s mother and coach as well as a prize money of Rs 2 million for the Olympic gold medalist, ARY News reported.

Addressing an event to mark Pakistan’s 77^th Independence Day at the Governor’s House, Kamran Tessori said that the Olympic gold medalist multiplied the joy of Independence Day by a thousand times.

The Sindh governor also gave Arshad Nadeem the title of “Sher Pakistan” (Lion of Pakistan).

Speaking on the occasion, Arshad Nadeem expressed his gratitude to the crowd, saying that he is overjoyed to see such a massive turnout.

“I am very happy to see such a big crowd in Karachi. If I get the javelin now, I will break another record,” the Olympic gold medalist added.

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The Olympic gold medalist and Kamran Tessori also wished the nation a happy Independence Day.

Earlier in the day, President Asif Ali Zardari, on the auspicious occasion of the 77th Independence of Pakistan, announced the conferment of civil awards to 104 Pakistanis and foreigners for their notable services and excellence in their respective fields.

The list features seven national sports persons, who brought glory to Pakistan.

As a result, star athlete Arshad Nadeem, who uplifted the nation by winning the Paris Olympics 2024 Gold medal in the Men’s Javelin Throw will be awarded Hilal-e-Imtiaz.

Nadeem not only won the country’s first-ever individual Olympic gold medal but also broke the all-time Olympic record with his 92.97m throw.

Moreover, the late renowned mountaineer Murad Sadpara will be posthumously awarded Sitara-e-Imtiaz, in recognition of his astounding contributions towards mountaineering.

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Pakistan’s star athlete and Olympic Gold medalist Arshad Nadeem was one of the seven sports personalities awarded Civil awards by the President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari.

President Zardari, on the auspicious occasion of the 77th Independence of Pakistan, announced the conferment of civil awards to 104 Pakistanis and foreigners for their notable services and excellence in their respective fields.

The list features seven national sports persons, who brought glory to Pakistan.

As a result, star athlete Arshad Nadeem, who uplifted the nation by winning the Paris Olympics 2024 Gold medal in the Men’s Javelin Throw will be awarded Hilal-e-Imtiaz.

Nadeem not only won the country’s first-ever individual Olympic gold medal but also broke the all-time Olympic record with his 92.97m throw.

Moreover, the late renowned mountaineer Murad Sadpara will be posthumously awarded Sitara-e-Imtiaz, in recognition of his astounding contributions towards mountaineering.

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Sadpara climbed several high peaks and was also responsible for recovering the body of late mountaineer Hassan Shigri from K2.

Murad Sadpara succumbed to death earlier this month as a result of a head injury, that he sustained on Broad Peak.

Meanwhile, Blind cricketer Amir Ashfaq will be awarded the Pride of Performance Award while Pakistan men’s hockey team captain Imad Shakeel Butt will be honoured with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz.

Former squash player Maqsood Ahmed will be conferred with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. Maqsood was a part of the Pakistan side that won the World Team Squash Championship twice.

Renowned off-road rally racer Nadir Magsi will also get the reward for his unmatched brilliance and sheer dominance in the sport as he will be awarded Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. Whereas, Kabaddi player Rehman Ishtiaq will also be conferred with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz.

READ: PM Shehbaz makes massive announcement for Arshad Nadeem

Red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie has extended a heartfelt invitation to Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem to visit the Pakistan cricket team’s dressing room.

Arshad made history at the recently concluded Paris Olympics as he became the first Pakistani to win an individual Olympic Gold medal.

In the final of the Men’s Javelin Throw, Arshad shocked the world with his massive throw of 92.97m, the new Olympic record, which was enough for him to seal the Gold medal.

Gillespie, during an appearance on the PCB podcast, invited Arshad to the dressing room, while expressing admiration for the athlete.

“We would love to invite Arshad Nadeem to the dressing room as well. I saw all the Shaheens cheering him on during the Olympics,” said Gillespie.

“Having him visit and share his gold medal with the team would be a fantastic boost, especially with the Olympic spirit still in the air. It was a wonderful moment, and we extend an open invitation for him to visit the dressing room,” he added.

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Pakistan captain Shan Masood, who was also present on the podcast, expressed pride in Arshad’s historic achievement.

“Arshad Nadeem has made us all emotional. Seeing him on the podium waving the flag and ringing the Olympic bell was incredible,” said Masood.

“He deserves all the recognition he’s getting and is a national hero. His achievements highlight the talent in Pakistan, and we’re all proud of him,” he added.

Notably, the upcoming series between Pakistan and Bangladesh will be the first assignment of Jason Gillespie as the red-ball head coach.

The series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25, with the first Test commencing at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from 21-25 August.

The second Test match will be played at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi from 30 August to 3 September.

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Prime Minister (PM) of Pakistan Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday, announced a massive cash prize of Rs 150mn to star athlete Arshad Nadeem for winning the Paris Olympics Gold medal in the Javelin Throw.

The star athlete received a standing ovation from government officials and other notable personalities upon his arrival at the PM House.

Nadeem was accompanied by his family and coach Salman Butt. In his speech, he thanked the nation for their unwavering support and also acknowledged the media’s role in highlighting his story.

PM Shehbaz also addressed the ceremony and heaped praises on Arshad Nadeem for his hard work and unmatched grit that led to Pakistan’s first-ever individual Olympic Gold medal.

He termed the achievement a gift for the nation on the Independence Day of the country.

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PM Shehbaz then went on to announce a huge Rs 150mn cash prize to the star athlete and 10mn to his coach Salman Butt.

The Prime Minister also revealed plans to establish a High-Performance Academy at Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium, named after Arshad Nadeem, in order to provide athletes with a platform to prepare for the Los Angeles Olympics 2028.

He also declared that the road between Islamabad’s F9 and F10 sectors would be named after the star athlete.

Earlier today, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif met Arshad Nadeem at his home and presented him with a cheque of Rs 100mn. She also gifted him a brand-new car with a customized number plate “PAK 92.97” in reference to his record throw of 92.97m.

Earlier, the Sindh government also announced a Rs50 million reward for Pakistan’s star athlete Arshad Nadeem.

READ: Arshad Nadeem shares he received offers to represent UK, Turkiye

Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday, rewarded star athlete Arshad Nadeem with a cheque of Rs100 million and a brand new car with a customized number plate “PAK 92.97” as a token of appreciation.

Arshad made history at the recently concluded Paris Olympics as he became the first Pakistani to win an individual Olympic Gold medal.

In the final of the Men’s Javelin Throw, Arshad shocked the world with his massive throw of 92.97m, the new Olympic record, which was enough for him to seal the Gold medal.

Following his ground-breaking performance, several notable personalities of the country and the provincial governments announced massive prizes for the star athlete.

Among them was CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who announced Rs100 million prize money to Arshad Nadeem.

However, the Chief Minister rewarded the athlete more than the announcement as she gifted him a brand new car which came with a customized number plate.

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She also lauded Arshad’s coach Salman Butt and gave him a cheque of Rs5 million.

Maryam Nawaz also announced the construction of a sports city named after Arshad Nadeem Sports City in Mian Channu.

Earlier, the Sindh government also announced a Rs50 million reward for Pakistan’s star athlete Arshad Nadeem, who won the country’s first individual Olympic gold in the javelin throw final at the Paris Olympics 2024.

On the other hand, Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori has announced that he will give Rs2 million to him.

Moreover, singer Ali Zafar announced Rs1 million for the athlete on winning gold for Pakistan.

Furthermore, President and CEO ARY Digital Network Mr Salman Iqbal announced to reward Arshad Nadeem with an apartment in ARY Laguna.

READ: Arshad Nadeem shares he received offers to represent UK, Turkiye

Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, who won the Paris Olympics Gold Medal in Men’s Javelin with a record throw of 92.97, claimed that he received offers from several notable countries to represent them on the global stage.

Last week, Arshad etched his name into history as he became the first person from Pakistan to win an individual Olympic Gold medal. He also ended the country’s 32-year medal drought.

The star athlete had an unwanted start to the Paris Olympics final as his first attempt was deemed “No Throw”. He, however, made an astounding recovery and fired in a massive 92.97m throw to surpass Norway’s Andreas Thorkildsen, who threw farthest at 90.57 during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

His exceptional throw remained unmatched and he made his way to clinch a historic gold medal.

Meanwhile, Arshad Nadeem, in an interview with a local news channel recently, revealed that he was approached by countries like the United Kingdom (UK), Turkiye, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Uzbekistan.

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He turned down the offers, stating that his heart belongs to Pakistan.

“I have been offered to represent countries like UAE, UK, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, but I declined. My heart belongs to Pakistan, and I want to play for my country, regardless of the outcome,” said Arshad.

Arshad Nadeem also revealed that he is currently a brand ambassador in Uzbekistan, however, he refused the country’s offer to compete under their flag.

His gold medal victory at the recently concluded Paris Olympics has made him a national hero. He received a grand welcome upon his return to Pakistan in the wee hours of Sunday.

A large crowd, including family members, federal ministers, and dignitaries, gathered at the airport to greet the champion, while people from his hometown, Mian Channu, also reached Lahore to participate in the celebrations

As Arshad Nadeem’s flight entered Pakistani airspace, the air traffic controller extended a warm welcome, praising him for bringing honour to the country.

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