Indian javelin champion Neeraj Chopra has responded to backlash over his decision to invite Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem to the Neeraj Chopra Classic in Bengaluru, set for May 2025. Chopra explained that the invitation was extended before the Pahalgam attacks and expressed dismay over the hate he and his family received in response. The double Olympic medalist underscored his patriotism and the tournament’s objective of boosting Indian sports. However, he announced that Nadeem’s participation is no longer viable.