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Pakistan's javelin star, Arshad Nadeem played down any rivalry with India's golden boy Neeraj Chopra ahead of their final showdown in the World Athletics Championship on Sunday, August 27. In the midst of speculations and media buzz surrounding a budding rivalry with India's Olympic gold medallist, Neeraj Chopra, Nadeem gracefully redirected the narrative. While negating any such rivalry sentiments, saying, "I don't compete against any one. I try to always compete with myself and to do better and better. There is no rivalry with Neeraj." Nadeem's words highlighted his sportsman spirit, emphasizing, "You can always learn from top athletes."
Both Nadeem and Chopra are gearing up for their participation in the coveted Paris Olympics and the crucial men's javelin throw event at the imminent World Championships this Sunday. While Chopra wowed everyone with his staggering 88.77 meters throw in Budapest, marking his fourth-best career performance, Nadeem wasn't far behind. With his season-best performance of 86.79 meters, he punched his ticket for the Paris Olympics.
Bouncing back from adversity, Nadeem demonstrated unwavering commitment. An elbow injury had side-tracked him from the athletic world, demanding extensive surgical intervention. This injury phase translated into a year-long sabbatical from sports, challenging him physically and mentally. Yet, with his undying spirit, he remarked about his journey, " Neeraj ke liye best of luck. Neeraj bhai, aap bhi aachha karen, hum bhi accha karen. Aapka naam hai world me, hamara bhi naam aye (I wish him (Chopra) the best that he does well and my job is to get better and better for my country)."
Nadeem's talent had shone brightly during the Commonwealth Games last year when he secured Pakistan's first medal in a track and field event in over five decades. This victory was tinged with a hint of desolation as his renowned counterpart, Neeraj Chopra, had to withdraw due to an injury just before the competition. Nevertheless, Nadeem's golden throw of 90.18 meters in Birmingham didn't just win him a medal but also the admiration and cheers of sports enthusiasts worldwide.
In a world where athletic competitions often revolve around rivalries and records, Nadeem's focus remains unyielding: bettering himself and learning from the best.
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