Javelin superstar Neeraj Chopra made a remarkable statement last Friday, affirming his resolve to defend his Olympic title in the 2024 Paris Games and his World Championships title in 2025. At 25, Chopra has already etched his name in history by becoming only the third javelin thrower to simultaneously hold both the Olympic and World Championships titles. His latest accolade was secured this past Sunday in Budapest.
When queried about the possibility of following in the footsteps of Czech Republic legend Jan Zelezny, Chopra responded, "Everything is possible if I remain motivated and focussed in my game." He added, "My endeavour would be to defend my title (Meri koshish hai ki mujhe mera title phirse dohraana hai) and whatever hard work I need to do to achieve that, I will do." Before Chopra's incredible feat, the titles were simultaneously held only by Jan Zelezny and Norway's Andreas Thorkildsen.
Zelezny, who also happens to be Chopra's idol, won Olympic gold in 1992, 1996, and 2000, in addition to clinching World Championships in 1993, 1995, and 2001. Andreas Thorkildsen secured his golds in the 2008 Olympics and 2009 World Championships.
Nevertheless, Chopra acknowledges the immense challenge that lies ahead in defending his Olympic gold medal in Paris. "It was a big challenge to win the first title (in Tokyo), and it will be a bigger challenge to do (defend) it again because everybody will come prepared. It will be more pressure than Tokyo Olympics because there will be a lot more expectations than earlier, even I have my expectations," he stated candidly. The primary focus for him, Chopra emphasized, is to remain "healthy and injury-free so that I can repeat all my titles."
Chopra, who recently finished second in the Zurich Diamond League, also revealed that he was dealing with health issues before the World Championships. "I did not want to say this earlier because people may think it was an excuse. But I was having cough and sore throat before the qualification round. I was having problems. I am still having problem in Zurich. I will be all right; an athlete's life is like that," he disclosed.
With his unwavering commitment to staying motivated and focused, Chopra aims to continue his exceptional journey in the sports world. As fans and the athletics community watch with bated breath, Chopra's upcoming challenges will no doubt be significant milestones in javelin history.
(With inputs from PTI, powered by AI)
