Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a reward of Rs150 million (more than INR 4.5 crore and USD 538,000) for Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem during a grand ceremony held in his honor at the Prime Minister’s office on Tuesday.

Nadeem, who secured gold in the javelin throw at the Paris Olympics 2024, made history with a throw of 92.97 meters, marking Pakistan’s first Olympic medal in 32 years.

In addition to the monetary reward, Prime Minister Sharif also pledged Rs100 million for Nadeem’s coach, Salman Iqbal Butt, recognizing his pivotal role in the athlete’s success.

The announcement came just hours after Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif visited Nadeem in his hometown of Mian Channu, where she presented him with a cheque for Rs100 million and the keys to a Honda Civic with a custom number plate “PAK 92.97,” commemorating his record-breaking throw, Business Recorder reported.

Maryam Nawaz also honored Coach Butt with Rs5 million, underscoring the government’s commitment to nurturing sports talent.

Nadeem, hailing from Khanewal, delivered two throws surpassing 90 meters, overcoming fierce competition from India’s Neeraj Chopra, who took silver in the event.

The Sindh government has also contributed to the accolades, pledging Rs50 million to the javelin star, further reflecting the nationwide celebration of Nadeem’s achievement. The outpouring of support and recognition culminates with Nadeem’s appointment as the chief guest for the Independence Day ceremony in Islamabad, as announced by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar.

Minister Tarar, speaking at a press conference alongside Nadeem and his coach, highlighted the significance of Nadeem’s victory for Pakistan, noting the “befitting welcome” the athlete received, including a water cannon salute upon his arrival at Noor Khan Airbase. Tarar also suggested that Nadeem’s journey from Mian Channu to Olympic glory could inspire a biographical film.

As the country rejoices in Nadeem’s historic triumph, the athlete used his platform to advocate for job opportunities for national athletes, emphasizing the importance of departmental support in developing sports careers. “If all departments in our country provide jobs to our players, it would greatly encourage them,” Nadeem remarked.

Nadeem’s extraordinary achievement has sparked widespread acclaim, with numerous rewards and honors announced in his name. The Lower House of Parliament has unanimously passed a resolution recommending that Nadeem be bestowed with Pakistan’s highest civil award. Additional accolades, including a Golden Crown and an honorary dinner hosted by Senate Deputy Chairman Syedail Khan Nasar, are also in the works.

Arshad Nadeem’s remarkable success at the Paris Olympics has not only earned him a place in Pakistan’s sports history but has also united the nation in celebration of his extraordinary talent and dedication.