Indian javelin sensation Neeraj Chopra has responded to backlash over extending an invitation to Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem for the Neeraj Chopra Classic set to take place in Bengaluru in May 2025. Chopra clarified that the invitation was issued before the Pahalgam attacks and denounced the hate speech directed towards him and his family following the controversy. The double Olympic medalist highlighted his commitment to his country and the event’s objective of boosting Indian sports. However, Chopra declared that Nadeem’s participation in the competition is no longer feasible.