Sporting triumph

Arshad Nadeem's big win in Budapest and green shirts win in Birmingham gives country plenty to celebrate

In a historic moment that reverberated across the nation, Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem etched his name into the annals of sporting glory by securing a silver medal in the Javelin Throw competition at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest, Hungary. This remarkable achievement marks not only Pakistan’s first-ever medal in the prestigious championship but also underlines the vast potential that exists within the country’s sports domain.

What makes Nadeem’s triumph even more remarkable is his journey leading up to this pinnacle. Nadeem’s trajectory through the Tokyo Olympics and the World Championship showcased his growing prowess on the international stage. The 90.18-meter throw in the Commonwealth Games further solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with. On this occasion, his third attempt reached as far as 87.82 meters — his season’s best — missing the prestigious gold to India’s Neeraj Chopra by just 0.35 meters. However, Nadeem’s path wasn’t without its challenges. Battling injuries and undergoing surgeries, he exhibited resilience and determination that mirror the spirit of Pakistani athletes and made a triumphant return. As the nation celebrates this achievement, it must also take this moment as an important lesson to invest more significantly in sports infrastructure, coaching and talent development.

Nadeem’s victory isn’t the only good sports news of the day. The men’s cricket team’s triumph at the International Blind Sports Federation World Games in Birmingham showcased another facet of the nation’s sporting prowess. The national team’s gold medal victory against India added to the nation’s growing list of sporting achievements. Pakistan undoubtedly holds immense potential in sports, which can be harnessed to not only bring home medals and accolades but also foster a sense of national pride and unity. By providing the right support and opportunities, Pakistan can undoubtedly establish itself as a formidable force on the global sports stage.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 29^th, 2023.

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