Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem ended a 52-year gold medal drought for Pakistan at the Asian Athletics Championships, crediting his victory to the prayers of his parents and the nation.

Nadeem clinched the gold in the javelin throw event at the championships held in South Korea, finishing ahead of India’s Sachin, who took silver.

Japan’s Yuta Sakiyama secured the bronze with a throw of 83.75 metres, while Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage finished fourth with 83.27 metres.

Pakistan’s other participant, Muhammad Yasir, placed eighth with a best throw of 75.39 metres.

“Winning this medal is a great honour,” Nadeem said in a message shared on social media.

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He added that the success was a blessing from Allah and a result of the nation’s prayers. Nadeem also acknowledged the efforts of his coach, Salman Butt, describing the medal as a product of their joint hard work. This victory marked his first international win since competing in the Paris Olympics 2024.

He is expected to land in Lahore on Sunday night at 10.20 pm.

The victory has brought Pakistan global recognition and respect on the international stage. Nadeem’s win was lauded by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Pakistan last won gold at the Asian Athletics Championships in 1973, when Allah Daad secured the javelin throw title and Muhammad Younis won gold in the 800-metre race.

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In his message, Zardari said that the entire nation was proud of Arshad Nadeem’s outstanding performance.

Simirlarly, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Arshad Nadeem continues to make the nation proud. He added that Arshad Nadeem’s hard work, dedication, and remarkable success serve as an inspiring example for young athletes.

Last year in August Nadeem made history by winning the gold medal in the men’s javelin final at the Paris Olympics, setting a new Olympic record with a throw of 92.97 metres.

Previously, Nadeem was named the Best Asian Athlete by Asian Athletics, which recognized his remarkable achievements on the continental stage.

Nadeem will head to England after this championship to begin preparations for the World Athletics Championships in September.