Pakistan’s star javelin thrower and Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem once again proved his dominance on the national stage by winning the gold medal in men’s javelin throw at the 35th National Games in Karachi.
Representing WAPDA, Arshad produced a best throw of 81.10 metres, placing him comfortably at the top of the rankings and securing him another prestigious national title. Their effort was head and shoulders above the rest of the field, and none of the other competitors were able to break the 80 meter mark.
“I got goosebumps launching it in front of the Pakistani crowd; although it was an exhibition launch, the feeling was really special,” Arshad added. “Thank you to the Government of Sindh for organizing such a wonderful opening ceremony.”
The silver medal was claimed by fellow WAPDA athlete Yasir Sultan who recorded a throw of 70.77 metres, while Pakistan Army’s Abrar completed the podium with a best attempt of 67.68 metres.
The victory adds another chapter to an already historic year for the 27-year-old, who made global headlines earlier this year by becoming the first Pakistani athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in an individual sport at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. His participation in the National Games has been one of the biggest draws of the multi-sport event, which is held across 24 venues in Karachi and runs until December 13.
Read: National Games begin in Karachi with spectacular opening ceremony
Nadeem was also given the honor of being the Games’ flag bearer, a recognition of his notable contribution to Pakistani sports.
“It is an honor to be the flag bearer at the 2025 National Games in Karachi,” he wrote on social media. “Incredible audience and unforgettable energy.”
The Olympic champion was among the central figures during the opening ceremony, where he performed a ceremonial throw in front of a packed National Stadium.
The event was attended by Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Sindh Sports Minister Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Mahar and Pakistan People’s Party President Bilawal Bhutto Zardari along with several other dignitaries.
Nadeem’s gold medal performance has further raised the profile of the National Games and inspired a new generation of athletes watching from the stands and across the country.
