Has Neeraj Chopra's Relationship with Arshad Nadeem Changed?

New Delhi, May 15 (NationPress) As the Diamond League event in Rome approaches, India’s javelin star Neeraj Chopra spoke out regarding the recent uproar concerning his link with Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, clarifying the current status of their relationship. Chopra, who made history as India’s first Olympic gold medallist in track and field and is the reigning world champion, emphasized that while there is mutual respect between them in competition, they were never particularly close off the field.

“I want to make it clear that my relationship with Arshad Nadeem is not very strong,” Chopra stated during a press conference. “We were never really close friends or anything. However, due to the ongoing tensions at the India-Pakistan border, things won’t be the same as they were before.”

This statement comes in the wake of significant backlash that Chopra and his family received following the now-postponed NC Classic, a one-day javelin event scheduled in Bengaluru, which had Nadeem as an invitee.

Social media outrage surfaced after a terror incident in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. Many aimed their criticism at Chopra, questioning his patriotism and accusing him of engaging with a Pakistani athlete during such sensitive times.

“The invitation to Nadeem was sent before the terror attack,” Neeraj reiterated, sharing his disappointment regarding the personal nature of the backlash. “Being questioned like that deeply hurt me and my family.”

Chopra underscored that respect is fundamental to his perspective as an athlete. “If someone treats me with respect, I respond in kind, regardless of their background. The javelin community is small, and while we compete for our respective nations, we maintain mutual respect.”

On the performance side, Neeraj has embarked on a new chapter in his career, now training under the legendary Czech javelin thrower Jan Zelezny, a three-time Olympic gold medallist and world record holder.

This transition follows a successful four-year collaboration with biomechanics expert Dr. Klaus Bartonietz, who was instrumental in Chopra’s Olympic and World Championship victories.

Chopra admitted that adapting to Zelezny’s coaching style was challenging. “Initially, it was quite different… Jan’s methods are in stark contrast to Klaus's. However, after a few weeks, I really started to appreciate it,” he explained. “Jan’s presence enhances not only my technique but also my mental resilience. I’ve gained significant insights on competing with a stronger mindset.”

The variations in their training approaches necessitated some adjustments. “With Klaus, we followed a specific pattern—throwing one day, lifting the next. But under Jan, we throw in the morning and lift weights in the afternoon. It took time, but it’s proving effective now.”

Chopra also mentioned that he previously dealt with a groin issue but has remained injury-free in this current phase. “This time around, I haven’t missed a single training session. That’s a positive sign for me.”

Transitioning from Bartonietz, who was more than just a coach to Chopra, was an emotional experience. “I worked with Klaus for 4-5 years. He was fantastic. However, he is now 76 and wishes to spend more time with his family,” Neeraj shared. “I expressed my desire to continue, but I also respected his choice. I’m immensely thankful for everything he helped me achieve.”

The 27-year-old star from Haryana explained why he prefers to train abroad, pointing out the distractions he encounters at home.

“Training in India comes with numerous commitments. However, when I train in South Africa or Europe, I can focus solely on preparation and competition.”