Saroj Devi, mother of Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, received praise for her kind words about Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem. Nadeem, who won the gold medal in the Olympic men’s javelin final, defeated Chopra in the competition.
Despite her son Neeraj Chopra securing a silver medal, Saroj Devi expressed immense pride and warmth towards Arshad Nadeem, the new gold medalist. “We are happy with the silver. The one who got the gold (Arshad Nadeem) is also my child,” Saroj Devi remarked. Her words resonated with a sense of sportsmanship and shared humanity, offering a powerful reminder of the dedication and perseverance that define Olympic athletes.
Saroj Devi’s comments have been widely praised by both Indian and Pakistani fans, highlighting the warmth and sportsmanship that can exist even in the face of fierce competition. Her reaction underscores the spirit of the Olympics, where respect and admiration for fellow athletes often outweigh national rivalries.
Arshad Nadeem, at 27 years old, made history by winning Pakistan’s first-ever track and field medal at the Olympics. He dethroned the defending champion Neeraj Chopra and broke the Olympic record with his performance at the Stade de France in Paris.