Neeraj Chopra and Arshad Nadeem’s historic showdown at the Paris Olympics highlighted a new chapter in India-Pakistan sports rivalry, with Nadeem setting a new Olympic record and earning Pakistan’s Hilal-e-Imtiaz.
New Delhi: Neeraj Chopra and Arshad Nadeem’s intense showdown at the Paris Olympics added a new dimension to the typically tense rivalry between India and Pakistan. The world watched in awe as Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem surpassed world champion Neeraj Chopra in the javelin throw final with a record-breaking attempt.
Following the event, Neeraj Chopra’s mother, Saroj Devi, expressed her joy over her son’s silver medal win and extended her happiness to Arshad Nadeem for his historic achievement.
“We are very happy. For us, silver is also equal to gold. The one (Nadeem) who got the gold is also like our son. He was injured, so we are happy with his performance. I will cook his favourite food,” Saroj told news agency ANI.
“A mother is a mother for everyone, so she prays for everyone too. I’m grateful to Neeraj Chopra’s mother. Woh bhi meri maa hai (She’s my mother too). She prayed for us, and we were just two players from South Asia who performed on the world stage,” Nadeem stated to Pakistan media after returning back home from Paris.
Arshad Nadeem, the humble Pakistani athlete, stunned the competition with his second throw, launching the javelin an incredible 92.97 meters to set a new Olympic record and seize the lead in commanding style.
While Neeraj Chopra couldn’t reclaim the top spot, he delivered a powerful performance, achieving a season-best throw of 89.45 meters to secure the silver medal. His resilience and determination shone through, making it a memorable moment for fans around the world.
In recognition of Nadeem’s remarkable achievement, Pakistan has announced that he will be honored with the prestigious Hilal-e-Imtiaz, the country’s second-highest civilian award. This accolade further cements his place as a national hero.
“Arshad Nadeem’s remarkable performance has made the nation proud on the global stage. His outstanding success in athletics is a source of pride for the country,” Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari stated in a letter he sent to the Cabinet Division.
The government also directed for a commemorative stamp titled ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ (commitment to stability) to be issued on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day next week.
