The Neeraj Chopra Classic on May 24 in Bengaluru is being planned as one of the premier events in Indian athletics. Fans are eager to watch some of the world’s best javelin throwers at work, but the event has already attracted some controversy for extraneous reasons. The trouble started when Olympic gold medallist Arshad Nadeem was invited to participate, later announcing he would not be there.
Arshad Nadeem Withdraws Due to Training for Asian Championship
Nadeem made it clear that he would miss the Neeraj Chopra Classic because of his training schedule for the Asian Athletics Championship 2025, taking place from May 27 to 31 in South Korea. His withdrawal had come within days of the devastating Pahalgam terror attack, for which he was heavily criticized by Indian fans on social media.
Others faulted Neeraj Chopra for insensitivity by inviting a Pakistani athlete at a delicate time. But Neeraj explained that the invitation had been sent prior to the attack. Both he and his family also incurred online insults because of this.
Julius Yego Speaks Out on Nadeem’s Absence
Julius Yego, 2016 Olympic silver medallist from Kenya, expressed his disappointment over Arshad Nadeem’s absence. Speaking to Livemint, Yego said, “It’s a loss for the sport. Competing against the best benefits everyone, especially younger athletes. I know Neeraj tried his best, but the situation didn’t allow it.”
Yego added that the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is a big step forward for the sport in India. “It’s great to see such an international athletics event taking place in India. This is how you grow the sport in countries where it’s still developing,” he said.
Big Names Set to Compete in Bengaluru
Despite the controversy, the Neeraj Chopra Classic promises an exciting lineup. Fans will get to watch world-class javelin throwers, including:
- Anderson Peters, two-time world champion
- Thomas Röhler, 2016 Olympic gold medallist
- Curtis Thompson, current world leader
- Neeraj Chopra, Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion
This high-profile javelin event offers a golden opportunity for Indian athletes to compete with international stars and gain valuable experience.
