Arshad Nadeem javelin throw final dreams are alive once again as the Pakistani Olympian qualified for the 2025 World Athletics Championships final with a throw of 85.28 metres. The 28-year-old, who famously won a silver medal at the 2023 World Championships and gold at the Paris Olympics, delivered his best effort in the third and final qualifying attempt to secure his place in the top 12.
Qualification Drama in Tokyo
Arshad’s road to the final was far from straightforward. Competing in Group B at Tokyo’s Japan National Stadium, he started nervously with throws of 76.99m and 74.17m, both well short of the automatic qualification mark of 84.50m.
On his third attempt, however, Arshad found his rhythm and hurled the javelin 85.28m, surpassing the qualification standard and booking his place in Thursday’s final.
Top Contenders and Qualification Leaders
The qualification round was dominated by big names in the sport:
- Anderson Peters (Grenada, Paris Olympics bronze medallist) led Group B with a throw of 89.53m.
- Julius Yego (Kenya) topped Group A with an 85.96m throw, passing on his remaining attempts.
- Curtis Thompson (USA) also cleared the mark with 84.72m.
- Neeraj Chopra (India, defending world champion) qualified with 84.85m.
At the end of the round, Anderson, Yego, and Julien Weber were the top three qualifiers, with Arshad finishing fifth overall.
Arshad’s Return from Injury
This Arshad Nadeem javelin throw final appearance is particularly special as he is returning from a calf surgery that sidelined him for much of the season and kept him out of several Diamond League events.
After a gradual recovery and training resumption in August, Arshad appeared in top form at the Asian Athletics Championships in Korea, where he posted his season-best throw of 86.40m.
Rivalry with Neeraj Chopra
All eyes will be on Arshad and Neeraj Chopra when they meet in the final. The two athletes have shared a friendly rivalry over the years, with Neeraj winning gold at the Tokyo Olympics 2021 and Arshad finishing fifth.
Their camaraderie has cooled since the political tensions between India and Pakistan earlier this year, but fans on both sides of the border are eager to witness another historic showdown.
What to Expect in the Javelin Throw Final
The javelin throw final will feature the top 12 qualifiers, with three throws in the first round and three more for the top eight athletes. The best legal throw will decide the medals.
Experts believe that to win gold, an athlete will likely need a throw beyond 88m, possibly closer to the 90m mark. Arshad has previously crossed 90m in training and set the Olympic record in Paris with 92.97m, so expectations are high.
Coach’s Perspective
Arshad’s former coach, Fiaz Bokhari, expressed confidence in his chances:
“Arshad is capable of throwing 90m any day. His recovery has been impressive, and he looked in good shape in training. I believe he can deliver a podium finish if he keeps his composure.”
Final Showdown
The World Athletics Championships javelin throw final will take place at 4:45 pm PST on September 18, 2025, at the Japan National Stadium. Fans in Pakistan are expected to tune in in huge numbers, hoping Arshad can upgrade his silver from 2023 to gold and cement his status as one of the greatest athletes in Pakistan’s history.
Source:The Express Tribune
