Almost a week after Arshad Nadeem wrote his name in Olympic sports history with a new javelin record of 92.97 meters in Paris, a Pakistani-American businessman was allegedly trolled online for his choice of gift for the famous javelin thrower from the South Asian country.
A report in News18 The businessman was identified as Ali Sheikhani, who had allegedly announced a Suzuki Alto as a gift for Nadeem. The report also said that the announcement of Shekhani’s gift was made by a Pakistan-based activist named Syed Zafar Abbas Jafri.
This update surfaced on the internet after a social media user on X wrote, “Update: Pakistani-American businessman Ali Sheikhani has announced a brand new Suzuki Alto for Arshad Nadeem, who won the gold medal at the Paris Olympics. Well deserved.” Below is the post which was heavily criticized by netizens for Shekhani’s gift to Nadeem.
“This is an insult… he deserves a BMW or Audi,” wrote one user, adding, “Is this a joke or something?”
Another X user commented: “Alto??? Why? Didn’t find anything cheaper?!? This is your first gold! Get something worth it!”
“Alto? Are you serious? Shame on you!” wrote another user.
Meanwhile, Nadeem also received a unique gift from his father-in-law: a buffalo, which he describes as “honourable” in the javelin-throwing village of Khanewal, where he practiced the sport, overcoming all obstacles.
Pakistani Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan and Sindh Chief Minister also rewarded Nadeem with PKR 100 million, PKR 2 million and PKR 50 million respectively.
Nadeem had expressed his gratitude while sharing his video from the javelin competition in Paris and wrote, “This gold medal is a gift from me to the entire nation on the occasion of Independence Day.”
Published August 14, 2024, 12:28 p.m. IS
