New Delhi: Since they compete in a “very small community” of javelin, he and Arshad Nadeem are respectful of each other but are not close friends, Neeraj Chopra has clarified, also expecting their equation to be awkward after the recent India-Pakistan hostility.
Chopra had invited Nadeem for the inaugural NC Classic meet, which was indefinitely postponed after heightened cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.
Chopra has beaten Nadeem to win gold at Tokyo Olympics while in Paris 2024, tables were turned as the Pakistani finished on top of the podium. But during escalation of tensions, Chopra faced criticism for inviting Nadeem at his eponymous tournament that was supposed to be held in Bengaluru.
Chopra begins his season with the Doha leg of the Diamond League and speaking on the eve of the tournament he spoke about his equation with Nadeem.
“First I would like to clarify that I don’t have very strong relationship (with Nadeem), we were never really close friends or something. But, because of this (tensions on the Indo-Pak border), it will not be like before. But if someone talks to me respectfully I reciprocate the respect,” Chopra said at a press conference.
Chopra disclosed that invites for the NC Classic were sent a day before the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed by terrorists who reportedly had links with Pakistan.
“Yes, as an athlete we have to talk, I have some good friends from the athlete community from all round the world, not only in javelin throw, but also other events. If somebody talks to me respectfully, I will also talk to him with full respect,” the reigning world champion said.
“Javelin is a very small community and everyone is competing for their country and everyone wants to give their best.”
Chopra added the he was hurt at the abuse directed towards his family and questions raised on his integrity on social media posts.
Neeraj Chopra had invited Arshad Nadeem for the inaugural NC Classic meet, which was indefinitely postponed after heightened cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
