Arshad Nadeem ready to defend Commonwealth Games Gold

Pakistan’s Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem says he is fully prepared to defend his Commonwealth Games title, expressing confidence that he can once again deliver a record-breaking performance on one of athletics’ biggest stages.

After completing his final training sessions at Punjab Stadium in Lahore, Nadeem said he feels physically and mentally ready for the challenge ahead and remains determined to repeat the success that made him a national hero at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The Pakistani javelin star stunned the athletics world four years ago when he won the Commonwealth Games gold medal with a record-breaking throw, becoming one of the country’s greatest sporting icons. Now, as another edition of the Games approaches, he believes he is in a similar position to produce another memorable performance.

“I’ve prepared well for the Commonwealth Games,” Nadeem said. “I feel like I’m in the same shape I was in back in 2022, and I’m ready for another big challenge.”

Before competing at the Commonwealth Games, Nadeem will travel to Switzerland on Sunday to participate in an international competition. He explained that taking part in a high-level event before every major championship has become an important part of his preparation.

“I always compete in one international event before a major tournament,” he said. “It helps me assess my strength, improve my rhythm and understand exactly where my performance stands.”

Despite his confidence, Nadeem admitted that defending a title brings added pressure.

“The memories of the 2022 Commonwealth Games are still fresh,” he said. “I’ve been the champion for four years, so naturally there’s pressure to perform again and prove myself.”

However, the Olympic champion insisted that his biggest competition has always been with himself rather than his rivals.

“My real challenge is to improve my own performance,” he said. “There are strong competitors this time, including an athlete from Sri Lanka who has produced impressive throws. It will be a tough contest, but I’m prepared for it.”

Nadeem acknowledged that pressure is part of elite sport but believes controlling emotions is the key to success.

“When you step into the field, there’s always pressure,” he said. “The important thing is staying calm and performing when it matters most.”

Reflecting on his journey, Nadeem noted that he became the first athlete in Pakistan’s history to qualify directly for the Olympic Games, a milestone he considers one of the defining achievements of his career.

He concluded with a heartfelt message to supporters, asking fans to continue praying for his health and success.

“I only ask my fans to pray that Allah keeps me fit so I can continue producing the throws that make Pakistan proud,” he said.