Anticipated Showdown: Arshad Nadeem Hints at Next Javelin Competition with Neeraj Chopra

Neeraj Chopra and Arshad Nadeem (PTI Photo)

Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic gold medalist, recently secured his second victory of 2025 at the Ostrava Golden Spike event with an impressive 85.29-meter throw in the javelin competition. The event was hosted by Chopra's personal coach, Jan Zelezny, the current world record holder. Thomas Rohler, the Rio Olympics gold medalist, was also a prominent competitor.

This victory follows Chopra's recent triumph at the Paris Diamond League. Earlier in the season, he secured second place, behind Germany's Julian Weber, at both the Doha Diamond League meet and the Janusz Kusocinski Memorial event.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, the reigning Olympic champion, was notably absent from these four competitions. Nadeem has strategically planned his competition schedule this season, prioritizing training in Pakistan. He did participate in the Asian Athletics Championship last month, an event that Chopra chose to skip. At the Championship, Nadeem won a gold medal with a throw of 86.40 meters.

"My focus is on the World Athletics Championships, and I am working hard for that," Arshad stated. "It is very hot in Lahore. I am going to England soon and will be training there for a month."

The World Athletics Championships are scheduled to be held in Tokyo from September 13-21. Both Chopra and Nadeem are expected to compete at this prestigious event.

Nadeem made history at the Paris Olympics last year by setting a new Olympic javelin record with a remarkable throw of 92.97 meters. This achievement prevented Chopra from defending his gold medal from the Tokyo Olympics, which were impacted by the pandemic.

Recently, Nadeem served as the chief guest at a World Olympic Day celebration in Lahore. During the event, he shared his reflections on his achievements and offered encouragement to aspiring athletes.

"It is a matter of pride for athletes to celebrate this day, and I am proud that I am celebrating it as an Olympic gold medalist for the first time," Arshad remarked.

He also inspired young athletes by emphasizing the significance of determination and hard work. "My message to the youngsters is to stay focused. I came from a small place and won a gold medal. So, if they work hard, they too can win medals."

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