Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the nation heaped praise on athlete Arshad Nadeem after he won Pakistan their first Olympic gold medal in 40 years.

“Bravo Arshad History made! Pakistan’s first Olympic men’s javelin champion, Arshad Nadeem brings home a historic gold medal at Paris2024!” PM Shehbaz said in a post on X.

“You’ve made the whole nation proud young man.”

The chairman joint chiefs of staff committee and the services chiefs extended their warmest felicitations to the nation on the momentous occasion.

“This remarkable achievement is a testament to Arshad Nadeem’s unwavering dedication, unrelenting perseverance, and exemplary hard work, serving as a beacon of inspiration for the entire nation. His triumph is a resounding affirmation of Pakistani talent and determination, showcasing the country’s potential to excel on the global stage,” according to a statement from the military’s media wing.

“By clinching the first ever individual gold medal in Javelin throw at the World Olympics, Arshad Nadeem has brought immense pride and joy to the people of Pakistan, cementing his status as a national hero and an iconic symbol of sporting excellence,” it said.

Former prime minister Imran Khan also praised Nadeem for the feat.

“Congratulations to Pakistan’s Olympic flag bearer Arshad Nadeem for an absolute brilliant javelin performance winning a gold medal for Pakistan,” he was quoted as saying in his post on X.

Khan said that Nadeem’s persistence and perseverance has done him and the nation proud. “It is the first time any Pakistani has won an individual gold for athletics in the Olympics. He is an inspiration for our younger generation.”

Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai also lauded the athlete.

“Congratulations, Arshad Nadeem! You made history and will continue to be a champion and legend inspiring young Pakistanis to believe in their dreams,” she said.