Arshad Nadeem: The iron man who rose from poverty to Olympic glory

Pakistani star javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, who won the country's first individual gold medal at the Paris Olympics 2024 on Thursday, came from a humble background where his family struggled to make ends meet.

Arshad's early life was marked by financial struggles. His father, a labourer, worked hard to provide for his wife and seven children, but the family often had to make do with limited resources.

Arshad's family only got to eat meat once a year on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha due to a lack of funds and resources.

Despite the financial struggles, Arshad's talent and determination earned him a spot among the seven athletes selected by the Pakistan National Sports Board for financial assistance for the Summer Games.

Arshad and his coach, Salman Fayyaz Butt, were also fortunate to have their air tickets financed by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), enabling them to participate in the international event.

“People have no idea how Arshad got to this place today. How his fellow villagers and relatives used to donate money so that he could travel to other cities for his training and events in his early days,” Muhammad Ashraf said while talking to local media.

The 27-year-old athlete's spectacular performance at the Paris Olympics has earned him widespread recognition and praise, with many calling him the "Iron Man" and "Steel Shoulder Man".

Arshad also broke the Olympic target by setting a new record with a spectacular 92.97-metre throw in the World Olympics.

Arshad's journey to stardom is a testament to his quiet determination and perseverance in the face of adversity, inspiring countless others to chase their dreams despite the challenges they may face.

Following his victory, several politicians and celebrities rewarded him for bringing honour to the country.

Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz announced a cash prize of Rs100 million (PKR 10 crore) for Pakistan's star athelete.

Earlier, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab said that Rs50 million reward will be handed over to Arshad on behalf of Sindh government.

Governor Sindh, Kamran Tessori, had also pledged a Rs2 million cash prize and an iPhone 15 for the national star.

Renowned singer Ali Zafar offered a Rs1 million cash prize and urged the government of Pakistan “to welcome him like a hero and establish a sports academy in his name.”

Mayor Sukkur Barrister Arsalan Islam Shaikh said that a gold crown will be awarded to Arshad for his remarkable achievement.

Business tycoon and CEO ARY Salman Iqbal announced a luxurious apartment for the sports legend from his residential project.