Arshad Nadeem declines Neeraj Chopra's invitation to javelin event as India-Pakistan tensions rise

Paris Olympics javelin gold medalist Arshad Nadeem has declined Neeraj Chopra’s offer to participate in the upcoming Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event in Bengaluru amid the heightened tension between Indian and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack.

The inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event will take place on 24 May at the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium in Bengaluru.

Arshad Nadeem declines Neeraj Chopra’s offer

Nadeem declined the invitation, citing his prior plans to take part in the Asian Athletics Championships in South Korea. However, many expected Nadeem to skip the Neeraj Chopra javelin event amid India-Pakistan tensions.

“The (NC) Classic event is from 20th May (May 24) whereas I am scheduled to leave for Korea on 22nd May for the Asian Athletics Championship,” Nadeem was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

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“I have been training hard for the Asian Championship which will be held in Gumi, Korea from May 27 to 31.”

While confirming the invitation for Nadeem on Monday, Chopra had said: “I have sent invitation to Arshad and he said he will get back to me after discussing with his coach. As of now he is yet to confirm participation.”

Nadeem had surpassed the then-reigning champion Neeraj to win the gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Pakistan’s Nadeem won the gold medal in the men’s javelin event with a record throw of 92.97m, while Neeraj clinched the silver with a best throw of 89.45m.

Both Nadeem and Neeraj are known for their friendly ties.

Nonetheless, the Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event is expected to be a massive event as some of the best athletes from around the world will descend on Bengaluru for the competition.

Two-time world champion Anderson Peters (Grenada), 2016 Olympic gold medallist Thomas Rohler (Germany), 2016 Olympic silver medallist Julius Yego (Kenya) and current season leader Curtis Thompson (USA) will be taking part in the event.