GUMI (Web Desk) – Arshad Nadeem has achieved a historic milestone for Pakistan by winning the gold medal in the javelin throw at the 2025 Asian Athletics Championships on Saturday.
His final throw of 86.40 metres secured the top position on the podium, surpassing India’s Sachin Yadav (85.16m) and Japan’s Yuta Sakiyama (83.75m).
This victory marks Pakistan’s first gold medal at the Asian Athletics Championships in over five decades (50 years).
The last time Pakistan clinched gold at this event was in 1973 when Allah Dada won in the javelin throw and Muhammad Younis triumphed in the 800m during the championships held in Marikina, Philippines.
Nadeem’s accomplishment adds to his impressive list of achievements, including a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he set an Olympic record with a throw of 92.97m, becoming Pakistan’s first-ever individual Olympic gold medalist.
The crowd at the Gumi Sports Complex roared as ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ echoed across the stadium and Nadeem, throwing last in the order, launched a massive throw that cemented his position at the top.
Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who had temporarily seized the lead with a strong 82.28m effort, was ultimately no match for Nadeem’s explosive third-round throw.
China’s Hu Haoran delivered a season-best 80.93m, securing third place after the fourth round, while India’s Yash Vir Singh broke into the top tier with an 80.23m effort, despite starting with two no-throws. He became the fourth competitor to cross the 80-meter mark on a day of high-octane competition.
Pakistan’s second entry, Yasir, registered 70.53m and 75.39m on his first two attempts but remained out of medal contention. However, the spotlight belonged entirely to Nadeem, who had already made a strong statement a day earlier by clearing 86.34m with just one attempt to book his place in the final.
Following the heats, Nadeem took to Instagram, writing, “As always I would need your support and prayers,”
Nadeem is no stranger to big moments. In August last year, he clinched Olympic gold in Paris with a record-breaking throw of 92.97m, becoming a national hero and a global javelin sensation.
With the Paris Olympics gold still fresh in memory and a 92.97m personal best to his name, Nadeem’s performance in Gumi not only reaffirms his regional supremacy but also signals ominous form ahead of the upcoming World Athletics Championships.
With the World Athletics Championships looming in September, Nadeem is set to travel to England for final preparations.
Nationwide praise and congratulations
President Asif Ali Zardari extended heartfelt congratulations to Arshad Nadeem for his remarkable triumph, saying, “Once again, Arshad Nadeem has brought glory to Pakistan in javelin throw. His outstanding performance throughout the championship, especially in the final, is commendable.” He added that the entire nation takes pride in his victory and prayed for continued success in future competitions.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif also lauded Arshad Nadeem, stating, “Congratulations to Arshad Nadeem and the entire nation on this outstanding victory! He continues to raise the nation’s flag with pride.” The Prime Minister emphasised that Arshad’s relentless dedication and inspiring achievement serve as a role model for aspiring young athletes and prayed for his future triumphs.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz celebrated the win, remarking, “Alhamdulillah! A breeze of happiness is sweeping across Pakistan from all fields. Arshad Nadeem’s javelin soared with the prayers and hopes of the entire nation.” She further noted that both Arshad Nadeem and Yasir Sultan have won hearts and made history with their success. “They are guiding lights for our youth,” she said, adding that the Punjab government is committed to providing all necessary support to young athletes so they can make Pakistan proud on global platforms.
Federal Interior Minister and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also expressed joy, saying, “Bravo, Arshad Nadeem! We are proud of you. Congratulations to his coach and family as well.” He praised Arshad’s dedication and declared him a national hero. “Arshad’s triumph is a result of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. Beating athletes from India and other countries to raise Pakistan’s flag in South Korea is a momentous achievement,” he added.
