LAHORE – Pakistan’s star javelin thrower and Olympian Arshad Nadeem is aiming for the top podium as he gears up for the Asian Athletics Championship, his first major international competition since the Olympics.
Speaking to reporters in Lahore, the national record-holder shared that he has been undergoing intensive training for the past five months, fully focused on delivering a gold-medal-winning performance.
“This is a big moment for me,” Nadeem said. “It’s my first significant event since the Olympics, and I’ve been working hard. My goal is clear — to give my best and go for gold.”
Nadeem, who has become a symbol of athletic excellence in Pakistan, stressed that his biggest competitor is himself. “My contest is always with Arshad Nadeem. When I perform at my best, I’m naturally in a position to win,” he said.
Looking beyond the upcoming championship, Nadeem outlined an ambitious roadmap: winning gold medals at the World Championships, Asian Championships, Asian Games, and Diamond League events — all competitions where he has yet to top the podium.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, saying that the year leading up to the Games will be solely focused on Olympic preparation.
His coach, Salman Iqbal Butt, praised Nadeem’s dedication and current form. “His preparation is on track, and he’s mentally locked in. Arshad is determined to deliver a world-class performance,” he said.
Butt also played down external pressure, noting, “For us, this is just another competition. Pressure isn’t a problem — in fact, it fuels performance.”
Before competing in the World Championships in September, Nadeem is expected to participate in two to three international events as part of his final build-up.
With renewed focus and a clear goal in sight, Arshad Nadeem is ready to make his mark once again — and possibly bring home gold.
