Neeraj Chopra Javelin Throw Asian Games 2023: Neeraj Chopra, India’s reigning gold medalist in the men’s javelin throw, aims to secure another victory and close the season on a triumphant note. The competition now appears to be favoring Chopra, as his closest rival Arshad Nadeem, has withdrawn from the Asian Games.
Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s first-ever athletics world championship medalist, has withdrawn from the Asian Games due to a knee injury, which has thwarted a highly anticipated javelin showdown with India’s Olympic champion, Neeraj Chopra, scheduled for Wednesday (October 4).
Additionally, the Asian Games have been marred by a second doping case, as a Saudi runner received a ban after testing positive for a prohibited substance.
World championship medalist Arshad Nadeem pulls out of Asian Games
Nadeem, who recently secured the runner-up position to Chopra at the world championships in Budapest, underwent a knee scan in Hangzhou after experiencing discomfort in his right knee, as confirmed by the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA).
The POA disclosed, “The MRI revealed a chronic injury which he has been carrying.” Consequently, Arshad Nadeem has opted not to participate in the Asian Games to safeguard his training regimen and ensure his participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
This injury setback has elevated Neeraj Chopra’s chances of defending his Asian Games gold medal during the evening session of athletics on the same day.
Saudi runner fails dope test
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian distance runner Yousef Mohammed Alasiri tested positive for darbepoetin, a re-engineered form of erythropoietin (EPO), a prohibited blood-boosting substance, resulting in his provisional suspension, as reported by the International Testing Agency (ITA). Alasiri, aged 34, was slated to compete in the men’s 10,000 meters but did not commence the race. He was also initially entered in the 5,000 meters but is no longer listed to participate in the event later on Wednesday.
In other Games highlights, China achieved a clean sweep in the race walking events, securing gold in the mixed team 35km event early Wednesday. Japan claimed silver, with India taking the bronze.