As the anticipation for the Paris Games builds, India’s Olympic javelin champion, Neeraj Chopra, is confident that his best performance is yet to come. Currently undergoing intensive training in South Africa under the Sports Authority of India’s TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) funding, Chopra is gearing up for a fierce competition, acknowledging the increasing level of talent in the javelin throw category.
Speaking virtually at an event held in a city hotel, Neeraj Chopra shared insights into his preparation and the challenges he anticipates at the Paris Games. The Tokyo Olympic gold-medalist expressed his awareness of the heightened competition, citing the remarkable feat of a 19-year-old German javelin thrower, Max Dehning, who crossed the 90-meter mark ahead of the season’s commencement.
“In Paris, the pressure will be different. Already this year, one 19-year-old from Germany has crossed the 90-metre mark, and this has happened even before the start of the season proper,” Neeraj said. “All the javelin throwers I have met so far are preparing well, and I too am training hard. If I’m mentally prepared, I’m sure I will do well.”
Confident about his mental and physical preparedness, Neeraj Chopra emphasized that the current training phase marks the best preparation of his life. “This is my life’s best preparation ever that I have had and will try to do even better. This has brought about some sort of positivity. I also feel I’m yet to have come up with my best, which I believe I will accomplish this time. Besides, by competing with the best, my confidence level too has increased.”
Reflecting on the challenges faced during the Tokyo Games in 2021, Neeraj acknowledged the unique tension created by the pandemic. He highlighted the excitement in Tokyo, coupled with a sense of tension due to Covid-related concerns. Despite the challenges, Neeraj emerged victorious, securing India’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics.
