‘I haven’t received a single plot...’: Arshad Nadeem exposes 'fake' reward promises after Olympic win

Lahore: Olympic javelin champion from Pakistan Arshad Nadeem has voiced disappointment over unfulfilled promises made to him following his historic gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The 28-year-old athlete made headlines around the world after throwing 92.97 meters, setting a new Olympic record and becoming Pakistan's first-ever track and field gold medallist. However, despite the celebratory announcements that followed, Nadeem revealed that many of the promised rewards especially land plots, have not been delivered.

During a media interaction, Nadeem stated, “Of all the prize announcements made for me, all the plot announcements were fake. Other prize money, I did receive”

He did confirm that cash prizes were disbursed, but said that the land incentives promised by various provincial and federal bodies remain only on paper. Following his Olympic triumph, politicians, government bodies, and private organisations publicly praised him and pledged numerous rewards.

Despite the setback, Nadeem said he is keeping his focus on training and recovery.

Nadeem’s next much-anticipated face-off with Neeraj Chopra is expected at the Diamond League meet in Silesia, Poland, on August 16. He is also training for the World Athletics Championships, scheduled to be held in Tokyo, Japan, this September.