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XtraTime Web Desk:  Lahore celebrated its hero early Sunday morning, August 11, as Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s first and only individual Olympic gold medalist, arrived to a hero's welcome. Nadeem, who clinched gold in the men’s javelin at the Paris 2024 Olympics, touched down at Allama Iqbal Airport to a grand reception.

His arrival was marked by a water cannon salute for his plane and a rapturous crowd of thousands despite the early hour. The 27-year-old athlete was warmly greeted by his father, who placed a garland around his neck. The airport buzzed with the sounds of drumbeats and patriotic chants, and supporters from his hometown of Mian Channu joined the festivities.

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A lavish reception featured a performance by the Punjab Police band and an extensive security presence, with over 150 officers ensuring Nadeem’s safety and an elite convoy escorting him through the city. Nadeem made history with a record-breaking javelin throw of 92.97 meters, surpassing the previous Olympic record of 90.57 meters set in Beijing in 2008. His achievement ended Pakistan’s 40-year wait for an Olympic gold.

In recognition of his historic accomplishment, the government announced that Nadeem would be honored with the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan's second-highest civilian award. The announcement came on Saturday, with President Asif Ali Zardari directing the Cabinet Division to formalize the award. President Zardari praised Nadeem’s performance as a source of national pride, emphasizing his significant contribution to sports.

Additionally, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the issuance of a commemorative stamp titled ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ (commitment to stability) on Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day, August 14. The stamp will feature Nadeem’s image alongside Minar-e-Pakistan, symbolizing national unity and progress.

Before Nadeem's historic victory, Pakistan had not won an individual Olympic gold medal. The country's previous individual Olympic medals were limited to Mohammad Bashir’s wrestling bronze in 1960 and Hussain Shah’s boxing bronze in 1988.

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Following his success in Paris, Nadeem has been showered with accolades and financial rewards. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced a cash award of Rs 100 million, while the Sindh government awarded Rs 50 million and the mayor of Sukkur presented him with a 'gold crown.' Maryam Nawaz also revealed plans to build a sports city in Khanewal, Nadeem’s hometown, and to name sports facilities in Karachi and Sukkur after him.