Pakistan’s sports history was marked by a significant achievement at the Paris 2024 Olympics when Arshad Nadeem secured the country’s only medal—a gold in the Men’s Javelin Throw competition. This victory not only elevated Nadeem to the status of a national hero but also brought immense pride to his nation, as he placed Pakistan firmly on the global athletic map.
However, the rewards Nadeem has received for his outstanding achievement have sparked both amusement and discussion across the country. In a gesture that has surprised many, Nadeem’s father-in-law gifted him a buffalo, a traditional but unexpected present for an Olympic gold medalist. The buffalo is set to be kept at Nadeem’s father-in-law’s house, reflecting a unique cultural touch to the celebrations of his success.
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Adding to the unusual list of rewards, Pakistani-American businessman Ali Sheikhani has announced that he will be gifting Nadeem a brand-new Suzuki Alto car. This gesture, while generous, has raised eyebrows when compared to the rewards received by athletes from other countries for similar achievements.
Nadeem’s gold medal in the javelin throw has undoubtedly made him a national icon, but the gifts he has received—a buffalo and a Suzuki Alto—stand in stark contrast to the rewards given to athletes in other parts of the world. For instance, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, despite being disqualified from the wrestling finals, received a cash prize of ₹4 crore from the Haryana government. The sharp contrast between the recognition and rewards for athletes in different countries highlights the varied approaches to celebrating sporting excellence.
Also read: Gold Medalist Arshad Nadeem Honored With Buffalo Gift After Paris Olympics Win