Pakistan's star athlete Arshad Nadeem clinched the gold medal at men’s javelin final at the Asian Athletics Championship in Gumi, South Korea, establishing himself as the new Asian champion.
India’s Sachin Yadav secured the silver medal with a personal best of 85.16m, while Japan’s Yuta Sakiyama took home the bronze with an 83.75m effort. Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who had led the early stages of the competition, narrowly missed out on the podium, finishing fourth with 83.27m.
The 27-year-old from Mian Channu had a slow start in the final, registering 75.64m and 76.80m in his first two attempts. However, he climbed the leaderboard with an 85.57m throw in his third attempt, followed by two more solid efforts of 83.99m and 83.44m.
It was in the final round that Nadeem showcased his trademark composure and strength, launching the javelin to 86.40m—just 32 centimetres shy of the championship record of 86.72m.
“I was under pressure early on, but I focused on staying calm and trusted my training,” Arshad told reporters after the event. “Winning gold for Pakistan at this level means everything to me.”
Steady start, spectacular finish
The final began with a rather underwhelming first throw of 75.64m for Arshad, which placed him sixth among the 12 finalists after the opening round. Japan’s representative threw 76.45m, Sri Lanka’s Ramesh Pathirega recorded 81.91m, while India’s Yashvir Singh fouled his attempt.
Arshad improved in his second throw, registering 76.80m. The turning point came in the third round, where he launched the javelin to a distance of 85.57m — the best of the event at that point — instantly placing him in the lead.
Pakistan’s second athlete, Yasir Sultan, also competed in the final but could not break into the top five. His series included 70.53m, 75.39m, 74.50m, and 72.92m in successive rounds.
Political figures hail Arshad Nadeem's success
President Asif Ali Zardari praised Arshad’s consistent brilliance, saying: “Arshad Nadeem once again brought glory to Pakistan in the sport of javelin throw. His performance in the final and throughout the championship was exemplary.” He added that the entire nation was proud of the athlete’s achievement and offered prayers for his future success.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also extended heartfelt congratulations, saying: “Alhamdulillah! A breeze of happiness and good news has blown from every field for Pakistan. With the gold medal, Arshad Nadeem has not only won hearts but also made history.”
“The prayers and hopes of the nation have risen with Arshad Nadeem's spear,” she added, expressing best wishes for his continued success. She also called Arshad and fellow athlete Yasir Sultan “beacons of light for our youth.”
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi joined in the praise, saying: “Well done Arshad Nadeem, well done. We are proud of you.” He applauded not only the athlete but also his family and coach, saying the win was a result of dedication and relentless hard work. “It is a great honour to raise the national flag by defeating athletes from other countries, including India."
Arshad’s series of throws during the final — 75.64m, 76.80m, 85.57m, 83.99m, 83.44m, and the final 86.40m — showcased both grit and peak form, reminiscent of his record-setting 92.97m throw at the Paris Olympics last year.
