Despite the presence of over 200 universities in Pakistan, none have successfully produced an Olympian. Presently, only 15 to 20 universities participate in inter-university sports competitions, with a primary focus on sports such as football and cricket. This situation is in sharp contrast to the extensive support systems found in universities in the US, Germany, and Russia, which are essential for developing Olympic talent, said Yasir Waraich from the Sports Science University of Sargodha. “The neglect of high-performance sports by both public and private universities has led to poor facilities and coaching, ultimately resulting in a scarcity of Olympians like Arshad Nadeem,” he added.
When Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s newly crowned Olympic hero, landed in Lahore on August 11, 2024, it was nothing short of a grand spectacle, supercharging Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations with an extra sparkle and pride. As his plane touched down at the Allama Iqbal International Airport, a jubilant sea of supporters greeted him with a breathtaking water cannon salute that arched through the sky like a shimmering tribute to his historic triumph. The crowd's chants of "Long Live Arshad Nadeem! Long Live Pakistan!" resonated through the crisp morning air, celebrating the man who had brought the nation's first Olympic gold in athletics. Nadeem, bathed in the euphoric atmosphere, was warmly embraced by his family, his father placing a garland around his neck—a symbol of honour and pride—against the backdrop of an adoring and animated crowd.
In a dazzling display of national and international acclaim, the accolades poured in. The federal government bestowed upon him Rs150 million and a prestigious civil award, while the Punjab government celebrated his triumph with a staggering Rs100 million, a sleek Honda Civic adorned with the number plate “PAK 92.97,” and an additional Rs5 million for his coach. The Sindh government, not to be outdone, announced Rs50 million and the establishment of the "Arshad Nadeem Athletics Academy" in Karachi, with further contributions from the Governor of Sindh. Fearing he would be left out, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur added Rs5 million to the chorus of praise. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir commended Nadeem’s exceptional journey from modest origins to significant achievement, underscoring the critical importance of diligence and steadfast determination.
On the global stage, World Athletics honored him with $50,000. On the corporate side, United Bank Limited gifted him Rs5 million. Toyota Pakistan presented him with a Corolla Cross Hybrid Electric, while the JDC Foundation contributed Rs92,97,000 and a Suzuki Alto. Singer Ali Zafar and cricketer Ahmad Shahzad each gifted Rs1 million, and businessman Ali Sheikhani added Rs2.5 million to the celebration. Salman Iqbal of ARY Laguna gifted Nadeem an apartment, adding yet another layer to the overwhelming adulation. Not only were these awards noteworthy, but every citizen of the country celebrated Nadeem's achievements in their own way, regardless of media attention. He captured the hearts of the Pakistani people and provided the nation with a unique and unprecedented accomplishment.
According to the 2017 United Nations Human Development Report, Pakistan has a significant youth population, with 64% under 29 years old. This potential can substantially impact Olympic performance if properly harnessed
Nadeem's historic javelin throw of 92.97 meters at the Paris Summer Olympics was a landmark achievement for Pakistan. Not only did it secure the gold medal, but it also ended Pakistan's 32-year Olympic medal drought and set a new Olympic record. This remarkable feat represented a turning point in Pakistan’s athletic history, scoring a long-awaited and joyous triumph for the nation.
Nadeem's humble origins are known to all. He completed his intermediate studies at the Government College in his native Mian Channu, which is equivalent to high school in the USA, after attending public school in the same small town. Although the college was not widely renowned, his exceptional accomplishments in sports earned him an honorary PhD from Gomal University. This raises a pertinent question: Why, despite a population of 252.4 million and a substantial higher education sector comprising 247 universities—147 public and 100 private—enrolling up to two million students, has Pakistan yet to produce an Olympic gold medalist?
In contrast, Stanford University made history at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. With 59 athletes representing 14 countries, Stanford achieved a record-breaking 39 medals (12 gold, 14 silver, and 13 bronze), the highest ever won by any school - and perhaps more than many countries. Among these, 37 Stanford athletes competed for Team USA, contributing 36 medals (11 gold, 13 silver, 12 bronze) and securing the top spot on the US Olympic and Paralympic School Leaderboard.
Noteworthy performances included Katie Ledecky ’18, who became the most decorated female Olympian with nine gold medals, and Torri Huske ’25 and Regan Smith ’22, each winning five medals. Stanford's tradition of sporting excellence is evident, with a total of 335 medals earned over the years and at least one medalist in every US Olympic team since 1912.
"Stanford is all around an incredible place to be. Only at Stanford can you get a combination of top academics, top athletics, and genuine people who want to see you succeed. I was inspired by my mother, Mary Naber, a collegiate swimmer and water polo player at Harvard University, to pursue athletics at a higher level. I am blessed and fortunate to have been recruited to row (LWT) at Stanford University, and can't wait to be surrounded by amazing people, especially the athletic support staff who provide personalised care and guidance to all of Stanford's student-athletes. And always, Go Card," said Angela Clare King, who joined Stanford University and its Lightweight Women’s Rowing Team (LWT) this fall. A Rock Academy Valedictorian with a 35 ACT score, Angela earned the AP Scholar of Distinction honours, led various clubs, and achieved the Girl Scouts Gold Award and Medal of Honour for lifesaving. She was also named Women’s Varsity MVP at the San Diego Rowing Club and embodies the perfect blend of academic and athletic excellence.
Stanford University's Olympic success is attributed to its premier facilities, distinguished coaching staff, and rigorous athletic programs. The institution's commitment to excellence in both academics and sports attracts top-tier talent, fostering an environment conducive to elite performance. This comprehensive support enables Stanford athletes to achieve remarkable success on the Olympic stage. Literature indicates that countries with well-funded and extensive sports programmes, such as the United States, China, and Russia, generally achieve higher success in international competitions like the Olympics. This success is typically attributed to significant investments in training, facilities, and athlete development.
Research on international sporting competitions reveal that nations strive to boost their soft power and national identity through athletic success. Systematic reviews have shown that a holistic approach is typically preferred for achieving elite sports success, though countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, and Spain often employ more focused strategies. Research emphasises Olympic sports, particularly athletics, due to their visibility and impact. The focus is on meso (organisational) and micro (individual athlete) factors rather than macro-level aspects. Quantitative studies based on official reports highlight a strong correlation between economic investment and medal success, underscoring the crucial role of financial support in achieving elite-level performance.
Arshad Nadeem's substantial prize money, awards, and celebrations highlight the Pakistani nation's dedication to sports and its readiness to invest in athletes who achieve remarkable success, as evidenced by his winning of the medal. According to the 2017 United Nations Human Development Report, Pakistan has a significant youth population, with 64% under 29 years old. This potential can substantially impact its Olympic performance if properly harnessed. Pakistan's first National Games were held in Karachi from April 23-25, 1948, featuring 140 athletes from across the nation and included events such as track and field and boxing. The country debuted at the Summer Olympics in 1948 in London, with its first Winter Olympics appearance in 2010. However, a review in the International Journal of Sports Policy and Politics highlighted a concerning lack of understanding of South Asia’s national sports systems, including Pakistan’s. At the 2018 Asian Games, Pakistan secured four bronze medals, finishing 34th out of 37 nations and 3rd among South Asian countries. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Pakistan fielded ten athletes in six sports, with only two reaching the finals. In contrast, the 2022 Commonwealth Games saw Pakistan excel with eight medals, including two gold, three silver, and three bronze, finishing 8th overall.
Despite its policies and achievements, Pakistan's sports sector grapples with significant challenges such as corruption, mismanagement, and inadequate infrastructure. The heavy reliance on government funding has led to inefficiencies and missed opportunities
Pakistan’s sports policy has evolved to address various aspects of the sporting landscape, particularly the revised 2021 sports policy aims to streamline the roles of federal and provincial governments, National Sports Federations (NSFs), and sports boards, fostering better coordination and effective management. Notable achievements include efforts by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to upgrade facilities, such as the high-performance training centre at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which aims to nurture young talent and polish elite cricketers. Additionally, past initiatives, like the Kamyab Jawan Sports Drive, have sought to promote grassroots sports and infrastructure development, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the overall sports environment.
Despite its achievements, Pakistan's sports sector grapples with significant challenges such as corruption, mismanagement, and inadequate infrastructure. The heavy reliance on government funding has led to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. To truly elevate its sports landscape, Pakistan must adopt a holistic approach that revises existing sports policies, encourages meaningful public-private partnerships, and fortifies grassroots programmes.
Strengthening coordination among the various sports organisations is crucial for athelete development. For Pakistan to reignite its national pride and create a legacy of sporting excellence, it must look beyond fleeting moments of celebration and commit to a sustainable sports policy supported by significant investments in universities. An inspiring model to follow is that of Stanford University, which demonstrates how integrating academics and sports can create a foundation for a thriving athletic and intellectual environment. This synergy highlights the truth that a healthy body nurtures a healthy mind.
Without these essential steps, the current wave of admiration will quickly diminish, leaving the nation yearning for the emergence of another exceptional talent like Arshad Nadeem.