Indian Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra has withdrawn his invitation to Pakistani javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem for the upcoming Neeraj Chopra Classic, following a wave of criticism and rising tensions after a deadly attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Chopra initially invited Nadeem, his long-time sporting rival and Pakistan’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, as part of his vision to bring world-class athletes to India. However, he faced intense backlash online, with many questioning the decision in light of the recent Pahalgam tragedy.
Also Read: Neeraj Chopra Invites Arshad Nadeem to International Javelin Event in India
In a social media post, Chopra said he was subjected to “hate and abuse” for the gesture, which he clarified was meant only as a sporting exchange. “It was nothing more, nothing less,” he said, reiterating his aim of elevating Indian athletics.
Following the attack, Chopra said Nadeem’s presence was no longer appropriate, and the invitation was withdrawn. Nadeem had already suggested he would not attend due to training conflicts.
The episode once again highlights how politics continues to cast a shadow over India-Pakistan sporting relations, with tensions often spilling into the athletic arena.
