‘It’s a shame we won’t have Arshad Nadeem’: Neeraj Chopra on controversy ahead of Bengaluru event
Updated: May 1st, 2025
Neeraj Chopra has reportedly expressed regret over Arshad Nadeem’s absence from the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic, calling it ‘a shame’ that the Olympic medallist from Pakistan won’t be attending the event on 24 May in Bengaluru.
The javelin throw competition at the first Neeraj Chopra Classic has already been hit by controversy.
Nadeem pulled out of the competition citing training commitments ahead of the Asian Athletics Championships in South Korea, scheduled from 27 to 31 May, as per reports.
The invitation to Nadeem had been reportedly sent prior to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, but the development attracted criticism online, accusing Chopra of being ignorant of national sentiments.
Chopra later clarified in a public statement that his intentions had been misrepresented and condemned the abuse directed at his family over the issue.
Olympic silver medallist Julius Yego, also participating in the event, backed Chopra’s efforts, saying to Livemint, “It’s a shame we will not have the Olympic champion (Arshad) competing… I also feel for Neeraj because he has tried his best.”
The NC Classic is set to feature the likes of two-time world champion Anderson Peters, 2016 Olympics gold medallist Thomas Rohler and current world leader Curtis Thompson. Fans will also get to see Neeraj in action.
Read also:
