Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra has addressed speculation surrounding his relationship with Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem, stating that they were never “very close friends.” Speaking ahead of the Doha Diamond League, Chopra emphasized that while he respects fellow athletes, recent geopolitical tensions have inevitably impacted their interactions.
Chopra Sets the Record Straight
During a press conference, Chopra responded to questions about his rapport with Nadeem, particularly after facing online backlash for inviting the Pakistani athlete to the now-postponed NC Classic in Bengaluru. “First, I would like to clarify that I don’t have a very strong relationship with Arshad. We were never really close friends or something. But, because of this [recent conflict], it will not be like before,” Chopra stated.
Impact of India-Pakistan Relations
The controversy erupted after Chopra’s team extended invitations to elite athletes, including Nadeem, for the inaugural NC Classic, aimed at promoting athletics in India. However, following the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, Chopra and his family faced online abuse, with critics questioning the inclusion of a Pakistani athlete amid rising tensions.
Chopra clarified that the invitations were sent before the attack but acknowledged that strained political relations inevitably affect personal dynamics. “Yes, as an athlete, we have to talk. I have good friends from the athletics community from all over the world, not just in javelin but in other events too. If somebody talks to me respectfully, I will also talk to him with full respect. But it’s not what people think it is,” he explained.
A Rivalry Beyond Borders
Chopra and Nadeem have shared a high-profile sporting rivalry since the Tokyo Olympics, where Chopra won gold and Nadeem finished fifth. Their interactions have often been celebrated as a symbol of sportsmanship beyond borders, particularly during the 2022 Commonwealth Games and World Championships. However, Chopra’s latest statement underscores the reality that elite sport does not exist in isolation from broader geopolitical tensions.
Looking Ahead
As Chopra prepares for the Doha Diamond League, his focus remains on performance rather than off-field controversies. “Javelin is a very small community, and everyone is competing for their country and wants to give their best,” he reaffirmed.
With the Paris Olympics behind him, Chopra continues to be India’s leading hope in athletics, while Nadeem remains Pakistan’s top contender in javelin throw. Whether their rivalry will evolve or remain distant in the wake of political tensions remains to be seen.
