Thu May 15 15:52:40 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**India-Pakistan Tensions Strain Friendship Between Star Javelin Throwers**

**DOHA, QATAR** – The celebrated camaraderie between Olympic javelin champions Neeraj Chopra of India and Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan has been impacted by recent escalations between the two nations, according to Chopra. The athletes, known for their mutual respect and friendly interactions despite the intense rivalry between their countries, face an uncertain future for their once-celebrated bond.

“It will not be like it was before,” Chopra told Al Jazeera on Thursday ahead of the Doha Diamond League, referencing the recent military confrontation that brought India and Pakistan to the brink of war. “I never had a very deep friendship with him, but we were always respectful towards each other.”

The two athletes, who won gold and silver at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, have been lauded for transcending political tensions. Their interactions at international events, including sharing photos and exchanging birthday wishes, earned them widespread praise and made them symbols of cross-border harmony.

However, the atmosphere shifted following an April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. Chopra faced backlash for inviting Nadeem to the Neeraj Chopra Classic, an event that was eventually postponed following the subsequent military exchanges between the two nations. Chopra publicly stated that Nadeem’s participation was “completely out of the question” after the attack.

Both athletes publicly supported their respective armed forces during the recent crisis, a stark contrast to their previous displays of friendship. It remains unclear when they will next compete against each other. Nadeem is not participating in the Doha Diamond League, and Chopra is set to skip the Asian Athletics Championships.

Despite the changed dynamic, Chopra emphasized that he will continue to treat Nadeem with respect. “I have a lot of friends in the athletics circuit since javelin throwers are a very small community,” Chopra said. “I will always reciprocate the respect I receive from my fellow athletes.”

Read More