Neeraj Chopra Clarifies Relationship With Arshad Nadeem

Indian Olympic javelin champion Neeraj Chopra clarified that he was never very close friends with his Pakistani rival, Arshad Nadeem, despite public perceptions of unity. Their professional respect was often highlighted at major competitions, including the Tokyo and Paris Olympics. Chopra explained that recent military and political tensions, especially after the Pahalgam terror attack, have irreversibly impacted their relationship. He faced intense social media backlash and abuse directed at his family after inviting Nadeem to the Neeraj Chopra Classic, a gesture made before the attack. Nadeem declined the invitation due to schedule conflicts, not security concerns. Both athletes have stressed the importance of mutual respect, but acknowledge that national events have affected their rapport.