Islamabad:Arshad Nadeem, who secured Pakistan’s first Olympic gold medal in 40 years in Javelin Throw at the Paris Olympics, has returned home.
Nadeem arrived in Lahore via Turkey from Paris, with his flight TK 714 landing at Allama Iqbal International Airport at 1:25 AM. His arrival was marked by a water cannon salute for the national hero.
Upon his arrival, Arshad Nadeem received a grand welcome at the airport. Thousands of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of their hero, while a band played celebratory music, adding to the festive atmosphere. The crowd celebrated with traditional Bhangra dances and showered him with flower petals.
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program Rana Mashhood, former Federal Minister Khwaja Saad Rafique, and Shaza Fatima were present to welcome Nadeem on behalf of the government.
Arshad Nadeem’s father was also present in the airport lounge, where he embraced his son and adorned him with floral garlands. Additionally, Saad Rafique, Azma Bukhari, and others presented Nadeem with more garlands in the lounge.
Family members, relatives, and fans from his hometown Mian Channu arrived in Lahore to celebrate his achievement. Due to the large number of admirers, Nadeem was transported in a double-decker bus. The national hero expressed his gratitude by waving and acknowledging the crowd.
Later, Nadeem’s convoy, traveling in the double-decker bus, headed from the airport towards Mian Channu via the motorway.
In a media interaction at Lahore Airport, Arshad Nadeem thanked the nation for their support and expressed his gratitude to Allah for the honor of winning gold at the Paris Olympics. He credited his success to the prayers of the nation and his parents, emphasizing the long journey and relentless hard work behind his achievement.
Nadeem also expressed his appreciation to the government, Punjab Sports Board, and everyone who supported him, noting his good performance in the Diamond League. He mentioned his participation in the Youth Festival and looked forward to preparing for upcoming events.
It is noteworthy that Arshad Nadeem won the gold medal with a record throw of 92.97 meters in the men’s javelin throw event, setting a new Olympic record. He is the first Pakistani athlete to win an individual gold medal in the Olympics.
