Pakistan’s Olympic hero and javelin star Arshad Nadeem has respectfully declined an invitation extended by India’s Neeraj Chopra to compete at the upcoming Bengaluru Classic Throwing Championship on May 24.
In a letter addressed to Chopra, Nadeem expressed heartfelt appreciation for the personal invitation but confirmed he would be unable to participate due to prior training and competition commitments already scheduled for the year.
“The year’s training and events have already been finalised, leaving no room for additional engagements,” Nadeem conveyed, while also extending his best wishes for the success of the Bengaluru event.
The event, set to be held in Bengaluru, is part of a growing initiative in India to elevate the standard of field sports, with Chopra’s name adding star power to the competition. His personal invitation to Nadeem was seen as a gesture of mutual respect that has developed over years of competition between the two elite athletes.
Arshad Nadeem is currently gearing up to represent Pakistan at the upcoming Asian Athletics Championship in South Korea, which begins on May 27. To prepare, he is expected to travel to South Korea in the third week of May for acclimatization and training.
The rivalry between Nadeem and Chopra has been a highlight in recent global athletics events, including their memorable appearances at the World Athletics Championships. While competition between the two is fierce, both have consistently expressed admiration for each other’s talent and sportsmanship.
Though fans were excited at the prospect of seeing the two javelin giants face off once more, Nadeem’s decision reflects the demanding nature of professional athletics and his focus on representing Pakistan on the continental stage.
