Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem, who recently clinched a gold medal and set a new record at the Paris Olympics, has extended his heartfelt thanks to the Pakistani people and the government for their unwavering support and prayers, attributing his success to relentless hard work.
The Olympic champion landed in Islamabad at Noor Khan Air Bases earlier today to a state guest protocol where him and his family were received by federal Information Minister Ata Tarar, Â Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shiza Fatima Khwaja, PIO Mubashir Hasan among others.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to host a grand reception today in honour of Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem, who recently made history by bringing home a gold medal for Pakistan.
Nadeem, joined by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and his coach, addressed the media upon his arrival in Islamabad, where he was scheduled to attend a dinner in his honor at the Prime Minister’s House on Tuesday.
Expressing deep gratitude, he acknowledged the crucial role of his parents and the nation in his victory. “Winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics and setting a new record was made possible by the prayers of my fellow Pakistanis,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Nadeem recalled the extensive effort that paved the way for his triumph, noting his early recognition during competitions organized by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in 2012, followed by his medal wins in 2014.
He also praised the unwavering support of his coach, Salman Butt, who stood by him like family after the Tokyo Olympics. “Together, we worked tirelessly and surpassed the 90-plus mark in the Commonwealth and World Islamic Games,” Nadeem shared.
Nadeem revealed that he had promised his coach he would break the world record, and while he set an Olympic record instead, he remains proud of the achievement.
From Paris to Lahore
Upon his return to Pakistan, Nadeem was met with a warm reception, especially at Lahore airport, where he was showered with admiration. “The nation has truly honored my hard work, and the appreciation continues to pour in,” he remarked.
He also highlighted a recent meeting with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in his village, where he received great respect earlier in the day. “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also recognized my efforts, and I am profoundly grateful for this acknowledgment, which holds more value to me than the medal itself,” he noted.
As Pakistan’s Independence Day draws near, Nadeem expressed his gratitude to Allah for bestowing such a significant achievement in the month of August. “Tomorrow is 14th August, and we will celebrate it with this medal, Insha’Allah,” he concluded.
