Gumi, South Korea – Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem delivered a masterclass in the men’s javelin final at the Asian Athletics Championships on Saturday, clinching gold with a mighty 86.40m throw—just shy of the championship record (86.72m).
India’s Sachin Yadav secured silver with a personal best of 85.16m, while Japan’s Yuta Sakiyama took bronze with another lifetime best of 83.75m. Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who led early, was pushed to fourth (83.27m), as Pakistan’s Muhammad Yasir finished eighth (75.39m).
Nadeem’s Dramatic Comeback
The Pakistani superstar had a slow start, opening with 75.64m and 76.80m before unleashing an 85.57m on his third attempt to seize the lead. After two more throws in the 83m range, he saved his best for last—a thunderous 86.40m on his final attempt, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
The stadium echoed with “Dil Dil Pakistan” as fans waved flags, eagerly anticipating another historic throw from the Paris 2024 record-holder (92.97m). Though he fell just short of the meet record, Nadeem’s victory marked a triumphant return to international competition after his Olympic heroics.
Coach Salman Butt Praises Performance
Speaking to Dawn.com, Nadeem’s coach, Salman Butt, called it a “good start” to the season but noted that fatigue played a factor.
“If there had been one day of rest between heats and finals, he could have thrown even farther,” Butt said.
Road to Gold
Nadeem had breezed into the final with an 86.34m throw in his lone qualifying attempt, while teammate Yasir managed 76.07m. After securing his spot, Nadeem took to Instagram, writing: “As always, I need your support and prayers.”
Pakistan’s Mixed Fortunes
The gold was Pakistan’s sole medal at the championships. Earlier, sprinter Tameem Khan placed 17th in the Women’s 100m heats (12.14s), while Shajar Abbas ran 47.17s in the Men’s 400m heats before finishing 12th in the semis (47.38s). Abdul Mueed ended 27th overall (50.10s).
Next Stop: World Championships
Nadeem now heads to **England** for intensive training ahead of September’s **World Athletics Championships**, where he’ll aim to add another global medal to his legendary career.