Pakistan’s star javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has officially turned down Neeraj Chopra’s invitation to participate in the upcoming NC Classic Javelin Competition scheduled for May 24 in Bengaluru. Citing prior commitments to the Asian Athletics Championship, Nadeem confirmed he will be flying to Korea two days prior, on May 22.
Arshad Nadeem Focused on Asian Athletics Championship
Arshad Nadeem explained his decision, saying, “The NC Classic event is on May 24, but I will be heading to Korea on May 22 to prepare for the Asian Athletics Championship scheduled from May 27 to 31.”
The javelin thrower emphasized that his focus remains on training and excelling in the continental championship. His decision comes despite Chopra’s open invitation, which he had mentioned during a virtual media interaction earlier this week. Chopra stated, “I invited Arshad and he said he would consult his coach before confirming.”
Neeraj Chopra Classic Moves to Bengaluru
The NC Classic was initially planned for Panchkula, but due to insufficient lighting at the venue, it was shifted to Bengaluru’s Kanteerava Stadium. The event, which will take place under floodlights, has been granted Category A status by World Athletics. Neeraj Chopra shared, “World Athletics requires 600 lux lighting, which Panchkula could not meet in time. Bengaluru offers better facilities, so we moved the event.”
Global Stars to Compete in NC Classic
Despite Arshad Nadeem’s absence, the competition will feature elite global javelin athletes. Names like Anderson Peters (Grenada), Thomas Röhler (Germany), Julius Yego (Kenya), and Curtis Thompson (USA) have already confirmed their participation. The event is being organized by Neeraj Chopra, JSW Sports, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), and World Athletics.
Arshad Nadeem, who threw a record-breaking 92.97 meters to clinch gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics, has been preparing intensively for the upcoming Asian Championship. In that same event, Neeraj Chopra secured silver with a throw of 89.45 meters.
A Missed Duel, But Eyes on Bigger Goals
While fans may miss the exciting face-off between Arshad Nadeem and Neeraj Chopra in Bengaluru, both athletes have their eyes set on bigger stages. For now, Nadeem’s focus is crystal clear — to shine at the Asian Athletics Championship and make his country proud.
