Indian Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra has addressed growing public interest and speculation about his relationship with Pakistani javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Diamond League in Doha, Chopra clarified that while the two athletes shared mutual respect, they were never “very close friends” and recent political tensions between India and Pakistan had strained their bond.
Chopra acknowledged their past interactions were often praised as symbols of cross-border sportsmanship. The duo was seen as a rare example of camaraderie between athletes from rival nations, particularly during international events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. However, Chopra now says that the evolving political climate has made it difficult to maintain that same relationship.
The controversy intensified after Chopra invited Nadeem to the Neeraj Chopra Classic in India, a gesture that was met with backlash following the Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians. Although Nadeem declined the invitation due to scheduling conflicts and sent his best wishes, Chopra and his family faced online criticism and abuse.
In response, Chopra defended his invitation as a goodwill effort between athletes, emphasizing it was “nothing more, nothing less.” He stated that the goal was to promote sports and unite the athletics community, not to stir controversy. “We have always shown respect to each other,” he said, “but things are not the same anymore.”
Despite the current strain, Chopra made it clear he holds no ill will. “I have friends across the athletics world, and I will always return the respect I receive,” he added. While their friendship may not flourish as before, both athletes remain respected figures in their field — with a rivalry that once symbolized something greater than sport.