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Pakistani javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem received a rousing welcome upon his triumphant return from the Paris Olympics, where he etched his name in history as the first Pakistani to win an individual gold medal.Nadeem's arrival at the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore was met with a grand reception, complete with a water cannon salute and a throng of adoring fans. The Olympic champion was mobbed by well-wishers, who hoisted him on their shoulders and showered him with garlands.An emotional reunion with his family marked the occasion, as Nadeem embraced his mother, father, and elder brother. The crowd erupted in cheers as the family members garlanded the champion.Nadeem's journey to the Olympic gold was a testament to his unwavering determination and hard work. In the javelin final, he set a Games record of 92.97m, surpassing the previous mark set by Norway's Andreas Thorkildsen in 2008.The victory was a watershed moment for Pakistan, which had not won an individual gold medal since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Nadeem's triumph also made him the first track and field athlete from Pakistan to clinch the Olympic gold.The outpouring of support and admiration for Nadeem reflects the pride and joy that his achievement has brought to the nation. His victory has inspired countless young Pakistanis to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence.Nadeem's return home was a fitting tribute to his historic accomplishment. The grand reception and the emotional reunion with his family captured the essence of the nation's gratitude and admiration for its Olympic hero.

India's Olympic campaign in Paris concluded with six medals, but the nation eagerly awaits a potential seventh that could match their Tokyo Games record. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) on behalf of wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the gold-medal bout in the women's 50kg freestyle event due to being 100 grams overweight.Vinesh's team presented their case to CAS, arguing that her weight gain was due to the distance between the competition venue and the Athletes Village, as well as the tight schedule between bouts. They emphasized that the excess weight did not provide her with any competitive advantage and was a result of natural recovery processes.Vinesh's legal team also invoked the principle of proportionality, arguing that the consequences of her disqualification were disproportionate to the minor weight excess. They highlighted her hard work and the silver medal she earned through her performance.Despite criticism of the IOA medical team, the association has expressed unwavering support for Vinesh. IOA President PT Usha stated that the association considers it their duty to back her.The CAS is expected to announce its verdict on Vinesh's plea on August 13. If successful, India could match their best-ever Olympic medal tally of seven.

India's recent Olympic hockey success, with back-to-back bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris, has been a remarkable achievement. Midfielder Hardik Singh, a key player in both campaigns, reflects on the significance of these medals and the journey that led to them.Hardik acknowledges that the bronze in Paris carries a bittersweet tinge. While it is a testament to the team's hard work and resilience, it also serves as a reminder of their narrow miss in the semi-final against Germany. "We were just inches away from that," he says, referring to the 3-2 defeat.Despite the disappointment, Hardik emphasizes the value of the Olympic medal. "We had seen everyone in India go crazy after we won the medal in Tokyo," he says. "We knew the importance of an Olympic medal."The team's ability to bounce back from the semi-final loss and secure bronze against Spain is a testament to their mental fortitude. Hardik credits the guidance of coach Graham Reid, who instilled a defensive structure that allowed them to protect their lead.Hardik also acknowledges the contributions of previous generations of players who paved the way for their success. "The credit for these medals goes to all the players who were a part of the Indian team since 2008," he says. "They took the hard steps, not us."Hardik's family played a significant role in his journey. His parents were present at every match in Paris, providing emotional support. "My mother was crying all the time," he recalls. "When we were leading, she was worried that we might concede. When we were trailing, she was worried that we don't concede too many goals."Hardik's hockey heritage, with his father and uncles being former international players, has instilled in him a deep appreciation for the sport. He believes that the team's success is a collective effort, spanning generations of players.As India looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup, Hardik remains focused on the ultimate goal: an Olympic gold medal. "We want to win the gold there," he says. "That is the scar that will be there for a long time."

Pakistan's javelin throw sensation, Arshad Nadeem, has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Neeraj Chopra's mother, Saroj Devi, for her maternal affection. Nadeem's historic triumph at the Paris Olympics 2024, where he became the first Pakistani to win an individual gold medal in javelin, has garnered immense admiration and support.Following the event, Devi expressed her fondness for Nadeem, stating that he was like a son to her. Nadeem's response was filled with warmth and appreciation. "A mother is a mother for everyone, so she prays for everyone too. I'm grateful to Neeraj Chopra's mother. She's my mother too. She prayed for us, and we were just two players from South Asia who performed on the world stage," Nadeem said.Nadeem's remarkable achievement has not only brought glory to Pakistan but has also strengthened the bond between the two neighboring nations. His victory has been celebrated across the border, with many Indians expressing their joy and admiration for the Pakistani athlete.In recognition of his exceptional performance, the Pakistani government has announced that Nadeem will be honored with the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, the second-highest civilian award in the country. Additionally, a commemorative stamp titled 'Azm-e-Istehkam' (commitment to stability) will be issued on the occasion of Pakistan's 77th Independence Day.Nadeem's triumph is a testament to his unwavering determination and the support he has received from his family, coaches, and the Pakistani people. His victory has inspired countless young athletes and has brought immense pride to his nation.

Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan's Olympic javelin gold medalist, has become a national hero after his historic triumph in Paris. The athlete's victory, which marked Pakistan's first-ever individual gold medal at the Games, has been met with immense pride and celebration throughout the country.Nadeem's journey to the Olympic podium was not without its challenges. Growing up in a humble village in Mian Channu, he faced financial constraints and limited access to training facilities. Despite these obstacles, Nadeem's determination and unwavering spirit propelled him to the pinnacle of his sport.Upon his return to Pakistan, Nadeem was greeted with a hero's welcome. However, amidst the adulation, he remained grounded and focused on the needs of his community. In a heartfelt appeal to the government, Nadeem highlighted the lack of basic amenities in his village, including roads, cooking gas, and a university."My village needs roads. If the government provides cooking gas, it would be great for me and my village. I also have a dream that Mian Channu city gets a university so that our sisters won't have to travel to Multan, which is 1.5 to 2 hours away, to study," Nadeem told reporters.Nadeem's plea resonated with many Pakistanis, who recognized the importance of investing in infrastructure and education for the development of rural communities. The government has since pledged to address the issues raised by the Olympic champion.Nadeem's success has not only brought glory to Pakistan but has also inspired countless young athletes across the country. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and the unwavering support of a nation.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has clarified that the responsibility for weight management of athletes in sports like wrestling, weightlifting, boxing, and judo lies with the individual athletes and their coaches, not with the IOA-appointed Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala and his team.IOA President Dr. PT Usha emphasized that each Indian athlete participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in these sports has their own support team that has been working with them for years. These teams include nutritionists and physiotherapists who are responsible for monitoring and managing the athletes' weight.The IOA appointed a medical team a few months ago primarily to assist in the recovery and injury management of athletes during and after competitions. This team was also intended to support athletes who did not have their own team of medical professionals.Dr. Usha condemned the hate directed at the IOA medical team, particularly Dr. Pardiwala, and urged those criticizing the team to consider all the facts before making judgments.This clarification comes after Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the women's 50 kg final at the Paris Olympics for exceeding the weight limit. Phogat has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to award her the silver medal.CAS has extended the deadline for delivering its verdict on Phogat's appeal to Tuesday, August 13. The ad hoc division of CAS has granted the sole arbitrator, Dr. Annabelle Bennett, additional time to consider the case.Reacting to the extension, Vinesh Phogat's uncle, Mahavir Phogat, expressed his patience and willingness to accept the decision whenever it is announced.Following her disqualification, Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling. She had achieved significant success in her career, including two World Championships bronze medals, an Asian Games gold medal, and three Commonwealth Games gold medals.

The United States men's basketball team extended their Olympic dominance on Saturday, securing their fifth consecutive gold medal with a 98-87 victory over France. This triumph marked the 17th Olympic gold for the United States in basketball.However, the team's post-victory celebration on social media sparked controversy. The official USA Basketball Twitter account posted, "Are we the World Champs now?" This message was perceived as a response to sprinter Noah Lyles, who had previously questioned the use of the "world champion" title by NBA winners.Lyles, who earned the title of "fastest man on the planet" at the Paris Olympics by winning the 100m gold medal, believes that NBA champions should not refer to themselves as "world champions." After the USA basketball team's Olympic victory, they shared a post that seemed to address Lyles' comments.The post drew criticism on social media, with many users pointing out that the FIBA World Cup, not the Olympics, determines the true world champions in basketball. Germany currently holds the FIBA World Cup title.Lyles had previously expressed his frustration with the NBA's use of the "world champion" label. "You know the thing that hurts me the most is that I have to watch the NBA Finals and they have 'world champion' on their head," he said. "World champion of what? The United States? Don't get me wrong, I love the U.S. at times, but that ain't the world...We are the world."Despite the controversy, the USA basketball team's victory in Paris was a testament to their continued dominance in the sport. Led by NBA stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry, the team overcame a strong challenge from France, who were led by NBA Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama.Curry played a pivotal role in the victory, scoring 24 points and hitting eight three-pointers, including a remarkable shot over Wembanyama. The United States' relentless effort and superior talent ultimately proved too much for France, securing their fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal.

Australian breakdancer Rachael "Raygun" Gunn has sparked controversy at the Paris Olympics with her unconventional routine, drawing both criticism and support. Gunn's performance, which featured unique moves including one likened to a kangaroo hopping, resulted in her losing all three of her match-ups against rival dancers.Despite the unfavorable comparisons and social media memes, Gunn has remained defiant, defending her artistic expression. "I was always going to be the underdog going in," she told Australia's Nine Network. "I was never going to beat these B-Girls at what they do, so I did what I do best and I went out and I showed myself, my creativity, my style, a little bit of Australian character so that I could try and make my mark on this world stage."Gunn's decision to wear her green-and-gold team uniform also drew criticism from some who felt it was out of step with the urban streetwear favored by other breakdancers. However, Gunn defended her choice, stating that it was a "matter of pride" for her to represent Australia.One reporter and commentator in The Australian newspaper, Will Swanton, urged people to "lay off" Gunn, praising her cheerful and patriotic demeanor. "She was cheerful, proud and actually cared enough about her country to wear the green and gold," he wrote.Gunn's performance has sparked a debate about the nature of breakdancing as a sport and the importance of originality and self-expression. Gunn, who holds a PhD in breakdancing and dance culture, emphasized that her moves were original and that she was proud to showcase her unique style.Despite the criticism, Gunn's performance has also garnered support from those who appreciate her individuality and willingness to challenge conventions. On her Instagram account, Gunn posted: "Don't be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never where that's gonna take you."

Legendary Indian hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has bid farewell to his illustrious international career after helping India secure a bronze medal at the recently concluded Paris Olympics. The iconic shot-stopper, who has been a cornerstone of the Indian team for nearly two decades, was recently spotted in a viral social media post standing in front of the Eiffel Tower, proudly displaying his hard-earned bronze medal.Sreejesh's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian hockey. The 36-year-old has been a rock-solid presence in the Indian goal, playing a pivotal role in the team's success over the years. His agility, reflexes, and leadership have been instrumental in India's rise to prominence in the international hockey arena.Despite his retirement, Sreejesh remains optimistic about the future of Indian hockey. He believes that the country has an abundance of talent and that a suitable replacement for him will emerge in due time. "There won't be a vacuum. Someone will come in my place, for sure," Sreejesh said in an interview.Sreejesh's retirement has left a void in the Indian team, but he is confident that the younger generation of players will step up and fill his shoes. He has been offered a mentoring role in the Indian junior team set-up, where he hopes to impart his knowledge and experience to the next generation of hockey stars.Sreejesh's retirement is a bittersweet moment for Indian hockey. While the team will miss his presence on the field, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players. His unwavering dedication, passion, and love for the game have made him a true icon of Indian sport.