Neeraj Chopra Responds To Backlash Over Arshad Nadeem Invitation Amid Pahalgam Terror Attack, Dont Question My Love For Country-OxBig News Network

As the countdown to the Neeraj Chopra Classic draws closer, controversy surrounding an invitation extended to Pakistan’s top javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has stirred a storm. The 2025 edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic, scheduled for May 24 in Bengaluru, promises to be a landmark event for Indian athletics, but recent events have shifted the spotlight from the upcoming competition to an unexpected diplomatic issue.

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— Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) April 25, 2025

Invitation to Arshad Nadeem: A Gesture of Sportsmanship

The invitation sent by India’s two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra to Arshad Nadeem was meant as a gesture of goodwill between athletes, transcending national borders. Nadeem, a rising star in the javelin world and the reigning Olympic bronze medalist, was initially thrilled to be invited to compete alongside some of the best athletes in the world. However, the invitation quickly became the center of a heated controversy.

Neeraj Chopra took to social media to clarify that the invite to Nadeem was sent on Monday, two days before the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 people. The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, had far-reaching repercussions, leading to a rise in nationalist sentiments and public outcry.

A Painful Backlash for Neeraj Chopra

Despite the clarity of his intentions, Chopra faced a massive backlash following the news. He revealed that both he and his family had been subjected to online hate and abuse. “It has been incredibly painful,” Chopra shared in a heartfelt post. “I am usually a man of few words, but when my love for my country and the respect for my family are being questioned, I cannot stay silent.”

Chopra emphasized that his invitation to Nadeem was nothing more than a professional courtesy from one athlete to another, aimed at bringing the best global talent to India for the Neeraj Chopra Classic. The invite was sent well before the tragic events of Pahalgam unfolded, and Chopra expressed his sorrow that the situation had been blown out of proportion.

Arshad Nadeem’s Withdrawal from NC Classic

Arshad Nadeem, who had initially expressed excitement about competing in the event, ultimately decided to decline the invitation. In a statement, Nadeem clarified that his participation in the Neeraj Chopra Classic was unfeasible due to a scheduling conflict. He was preparing for the Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea, from May 27 to 31, which required him to leave for training on May 22.

Though disappointed by the turn of events, Nadeem affirmed that he deeply appreciated Chopra’s gesture. However, given his commitment to the continental championships, he would not be able to participate in the prestigious meet in Bengaluru.

Neeraj Chopra Classic: A Landmark Event for Indian Athletics

The Neeraj Chopra Classic, set to take place at the iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, will still go ahead as planned. Recognized by World Athletics with Gold Label status, the event promises to elevate India’s presence in international athletics. The meet will feature an impressive line-up of javelin throwers, including World Champions, Olympic medalists, and top-ranked athletes.

Among the confirmed participants are Grenada’s double World Champion Anderson Peters, Germany’s 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist Thomas Rohler, and Kenya’s 2015 World Champion Julius Yego. These world-class athletes will compete in front of a passionate Indian audience, furthering Chopra’s vision to make India a hub for elite athletic competitions.

A Commitment to the Nation

Despite the public scrutiny, Neeraj Chopra remains steadfast in his commitment to Indian athletics and the country’s global sporting ambitions. “I have carried my country with pride for so many years, and it hurts to see my integrity being questioned,” he stated. Chopra reiterated that his primary focus was always on representing India on the world stage and that the Neeraj Chopra Classic was a testament to his dedication to the sport.

As the event draws near, the focus will shift back to the athletes, the competition, and the growing importance of athletics in India. For Chopra, this incident is a reminder of the complexities athletes face off the field, yet it has only strengthened his resolve to continue bringing international recognition to Indian sports.