Arshad Looks to Train Abroad
Pakistan’s Olympic javelin champion Arshad Nadeem is expected to focus on overseas training as he looks to return to his best form. The move comes after a disappointing performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, where he finished ninth in the men’s javelin event. For an athlete competing at the highest level, regular international training can make a noticeable difference, especially when performance and preparation need to remain consistent.
A Difficult Commonwealth Games
Arshad’s result in Glasgow came as a surprise to many supporters. The defending champion managed a best throw of 77.41 meters and failed to reach the final eight, while Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage won the gold medal. It was a sharp contrast to the performances that had made Arshad one of Pakistan’s biggest sporting stars.
Why Overseas Training Matters
Former Pakistani record holder Zafar Ibn-e-Yaqoob has urged Arshad to make Europe his training base and work alongside leading international athletes. He believes regular exposure to top-level competitors could help the Olympic champion maintain his position among the world’s best javelin throwers. Germany has also been suggested as a possible training destination.
Training Has Helped Him Before
Arshad’s success has already shown the value of international preparation. Before his Olympic triumph, he trained in South Africa under coach Terseus Liebenberg, while training stints at Northwest University in Potchefstroom also formed part of his preparation. That experience helped him prepare for major international competitions and eventually produce one of the greatest performances in Pakistan’s Olympic history.
Remembering His Historic Olympic Gold
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Arshad threw 92.97 meters to win gold and set an Olympic record. He became Pakistan’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, turning a javelin throw into one of the country’s most memorable sporting moments. That achievement also raised expectations around his future competitions.
Questions About Preparation
Arshad’s recent struggles have led to renewed discussion about his training arrangements. Some of his mentors have pointed to a lack of proper preparation, while other former athletes have argued that the wider sports system also needs to take responsibility. The debate is not only about one poor result. It is about how Pakistan can properly support an athlete competing against the world’s strongest javelin throwers.
Coach Could Join Him Abroad
There are also calls for Arshad’s coach Salman Butt to accompany him during overseas training. Supporters of the idea believe continuity between athlete and coach could be important as Arshad works on technique, fitness, and competition preparation. For a javelin thrower, small technical adjustments can have a major effect on distance.
A Chance to Come Back Stronger
A disappointing competition does not erase Arshad Nadeem’s achievements. At 29, he still has time to rebuild his form and compete for more major titles. Overseas training could give him access to better facilities, stronger competition, and specialized coaching. The next phase of his career will show whether that preparation can help the Olympic champion return to the level Pakistan has come to expect from him.
