The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris were graced by Arshad Nadeem, a Pakistani javelin thrower who threw an Olympic record-breaking 92.97 meters. The accolade of the gold medal he received not only added his name among world greats but also carved it into history as one of the most distinguished athletes ever. An impressive throw of 89.45 meters earned silver for India’s reigning Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra.
Nadeem’s exceptional performance saw him emerge as the person at the top of the podium but equally placed him among very few athletes who have thrown over 90 meters in Olympic javelin history. Currently, he is part of this small elite group of sportsmen such as Jan Zelezny, Andreas Thorkildsen and Thomas Röhler who have managed to achieve such feats.
Chopra, who was trying to win back the Olympic championship, struggled with his flow during the competition due to three fouls. Even so, his throw of 89.45 meters was good enough for the silver medal, confirming his place among the best javelin throwers in the world.
Remarkably, Nadeem struck gold for Pakistan’s first-ever Olympic medal in track and field events which happened to surpass previous best held by Andreas Thorkildsen from Norway.
Additionally, the Indian men’s hockey team achieved yet another Olympic milestone by defeating Spain 2-1 and winning a bronze medal. The moment was indeed remarkable and the experienced goalie PR Sreejesh kept the audience on their feet with exceptional saves that helped India to get its second consecutive Olympic medal.
Amid the Olympic games of Paris 2024, there has been an emotional roller coaster for Indian sports fans. So far India has won multiple medals in field hockey and javelin throwing, which is a reflection of their rising significance in global athletics.