Pakistan’s prominent javelin thrower, Arshad Nadeem, has been compelled to withdraw from the Asian Games 2023 due to an injury. The Commonwealth Games champion and world championships silver medalist pulled out of the competition just a day before the men’s javelin throw event was scheduled to take place in Hangzhou, China.
Anticipated Face-off With Neeraj Chopra
Arshad Nadeem was anticipated to provide stiff competition to the world’s No.1 javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra, at the Asian Games. Their rivalry has been a closely-watched spectacle in the world of athletics. However, Nadeem’s campaign was marred by knee pain, which he reported shortly after arriving in Hangzhou.
Chronic Knee Injury RevealedUpon undergoing MRI scans, it was revealed that Arshad Nadeem had been dealing with a chronic knee injury. This unfortunate revelation left the 26-year-old Pakistani athlete with no choice but to withdraw from the competition.
At the previous edition of the Asian Games in Jakarta in 2018, Neeraj Chopra clinched the gold medal, while Arshad Nadeem secured a bronze. The two javelin throwers engaged in a fierce battle earlier this year at the Budapest World Championships, with Neeraj Chopra ultimately claiming the top spot.
Arshad Nadeem achieved a personal best throw of 90.18m during his triumphant performance in the javelin throw at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham last year. It’s worth noting that Neeraj Chopra had to miss that event due to an injury.
Top Contenders in Nadeem’s Absence
Arshad Nadeem no longer in the competition, the field will see other formidable competitors vying for victory. Notable contenders include Kishore Jena, who finished fifth at the Budapest World Championships, and Genki Roderick, ranked eighth in the world from Japan.
Asian championships bronze medalist Muhammad Yasir of Pakistan and Asian record holder Chao-Tsun Cheng from Chinese Taipei will also be seeking to challenge Neeraj Chopra’s title defense. Chao-Tsun Cheng holds the Asian record in javelin throw with an impressive 91.36m.
As the reigning world, Olympic, and Asian Games champion, Neeraj Chopra will aim to successfully defend his continental crown at the Asian Games 2023.
