Getting hate and abuse for inviting Pakistan's Nadeem to NC Classic, says Neeraj Chopra

Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra faces backlash for inviting Pakistani athlete to event post-terror attack, defends patriotism and integrity.

Indian javelin throw star Neeraj Chopra on Friday (April 25, 2025) said he has been bombarded with "hate and abuse" for inviting Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem to next month's NC Classic in Bengaluru, saying that the Olympic champion's presence was "completely out of question" in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

The Tokyo Olympics gold-medallist and Paris Games silver-winning star from Haryana said he was deeply hurt to see his and his family's integrity being questioned in abusive social media posts.

Chopra invited Nadeem, who defeated the Indian in Paris last year to win gold, for the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic to be held in Bengaluru on May 24.

"After all that has taken place over the last 48 hours, Arshad's presence at the NC Classic was completely out of the question. My country and its interests will always come first," Chopra, who is a Subedar Major in the Indian Army, said in a lengthy post on 'X'.

"To those that are going through the loss of their people, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Along with the entire nation, I am both hurt and angry at what has taken place," said Chopra.

"I am confident that our country's response will show our strength as a nation and justice will be served," he added.

Nadeem had declined to come citing other commitments.