Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, who won the Paris Olympics Gold Medal in Men’s Javelin with a record throw of 92.97, claimed that he received offers from several notable countries to represent them on the global stage.
Last week, Arshad etched his name into history as he became the first person from Pakistan to win an individual Olympic Gold medal. He also ended the country’s 32-year medal drought.
The star athlete had an unwanted start to the Paris Olympics final as his first attempt was deemed “No Throw”. He, however, made an astounding recovery and fired in a massive 92.97m throw to surpass Norway’s Andreas Thorkildsen, who threw farthest at 90.57 during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
His exceptional throw remained unmatched and he made his way to clinch a historic gold medal.
Meanwhile, Arshad Nadeem, in an interview with a local news channel recently, revealed that he was approached by countries like the United Kingdom (UK), Turkiye, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Uzbekistan.
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He turned down the offers, stating that his heart belongs to Pakistan.
“I have been offered to represent countries like UAE, UK, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, but I declined. My heart belongs to Pakistan, and I want to play for my country, regardless of the outcome,” said Arshad.
Arshad Nadeem also revealed that he is currently a brand ambassador in Uzbekistan, however, he refused the country’s offer to compete under their flag.
His gold medal victory at the recently concluded Paris Olympics has made him a national hero. He received a grand welcome upon his return to Pakistan in the wee hours of Sunday.
A large crowd, including family members, federal ministers, and dignitaries, gathered at the airport to greet the champion, while people from his hometown, Mian Channu, also reached Lahore to participate in the celebrations
As Arshad Nadeem’s flight entered Pakistani airspace, the air traffic controller extended a warm welcome, praising him for bringing honour to the country.
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