Sports Desk: The much-anticipated rivalry between the two south Asian javelin giants Neeraj Chopra and Arshad Nadeem was watched across the subcontinent with much anticipation. By repeating their dominance in the sport since Tokyo 2020, the two Indo-Pak titans have shared the Olympic podium again, back-to-back for the second time.
However, Pakistan’s Nadeem did better of Neeraj Chopra to win the gold this time. He not only had the best throw in the finals, but he also created an Olympic record with his mammoth 92.97m throw and won his first Olympic medal.
Neeraj Chopra also gave one of his best throws of his career with his 89.45m throw, which is higher than his gold medal throw in Tokyo. Despite this, due to his counterpart Nadeem’s record crushing performance, Neeraj won the silver.
Both these athletes are the genuine icons for India and Pakistan. Their extraordinary achievements have inspired millions in the subcontinent, where cricket has overshadowed every other sport with its predominance. Who would have thought the India and Pakistan rivalry could also happen with a javelin?
Both Akash and Arshad come from decent backgrounds with least facilities and recognition for such a sport. But their talent and determination are extraordinary. Both of them can be regarded as a once in a lifetime athletes. Their feat at the Paris 2024 will stay etched in the sporting and cultural history of the region and the world forever.
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