Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra has responded to the wave of criticism and abuse he received after extending an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart Arshad Nadeem for the upcoming Neeraj Chopra Classic in India.
Earlier this week, the Olympic gold medallist invited Nadeem to participate in the event, set to take place on May 24. The competition, part of the World Athletics Gold category, will also feature global names like former world champions Anderson Peters, Julius Yego, 2016 Olympic champion Thomas Röhler, and Curtis Thompson from the U.S.
At a press conference, Chopra said the invitation to Arshad was like those sent to other elite athletes. “It depends on government approvals,” he explained. “Once that’s sorted, the final list of participants will be confirmed.”
However, the move sparked outrage from some quarters amid tense diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan, following a deadly incident in Indian-administered Kashmir. In response to India’s actions, Pakistan suspended trade and closed its airspace, among other measures.
Neeraj Speaks Out on Social Media
On Friday, Chopra took to his social media platforms to address the backlash, revealing that much of the reaction has been filled with “hate and abuse.”
“I usually stay quiet, but there are times I need to speak up—especially when my patriotism and my family’s honour are questioned,” he wrote.
Chopra emphasized that his invitation to Arshad was a gesture of sportsmanship—nothing more than one athlete reaching out to another. “The purpose of the Neeraj Chopra Classic is to bring top-level athletes to India and establish our nation as a hub for world-class sporting events,” he added.
However, in light of recent events, Chopra said, “It’s clear that Arshad’s participation in the event is now off the table.”
“My country and its interests will always come first,” he stressed. “What’s happened over the last 48 hours has left me deeply hurt and angry.”
A Personal and Emotional Response
Chopra also addressed personal attacks and false media narratives. “I’ve always represented India with pride. It’s painful to have my integrity questioned, especially when my family—who live simple, honest lives—are dragged into it.”
He recalled how a comment made by his mother last year—expressing happiness over Arshad’s Olympic win—was initially praised but is now being twisted and criticized. After the Tokyo Games, Chopra’s mother, Saroj Devi, had said she was content with her son’s silver because it was “my child” Arshad who won gold. Nadeem’s mother, Raziah Parveen, had also expressed warmth, saying, “Neeraj Chopra is like a son to me. I prayed for him too.”
A Message of Resolve
Chopra concluded his statement by reaffirming his commitment to his sport and country:
“I will continue working even harder so that the world looks up to India with admiration and respect—for all the right reasons.”
Meanwhile, Arshad Nadeem, speaking after last year’s Olympic final in Paris, had described his relationship with Chopra as one of friendship and mutual respect. “We are good friends. Of course, in competition we play for our countries, but I hope our bond remains strong for years to come.”
