On the eve of the Doha Diamond League, which took place on 10 May, some of the top athletes in the world milled around at the players’ hotel during media day in their summer staples of shorts and T-shirts. Neeraj Chopra, the most sought-after name at the event, however, was swaddled in a white tracksuit. It was a suit of armour against the air-conditioning, keeping his muscles warm, relaxed, and ready for competition.
“Unlike the Europeans, we are not used to the cold,” the javelin star said. Be it the little things or the big things, Chopra is used to standing out from the crowd—he is a trailblazing Indian in a predominantly European sport after all. But the 26-year-old isn’t just surviving; he’s thriving at the very top. He’s the reigning Olympic and world champion. And at the 2024 Paris Olympics, which began on 26 July, the floppy-haired javelin star will once again be India’s biggest medal hope. Not just because of the historic gold at Tokyo 2020, but the way he has built on that success.
A Journey of Excellence
It was a momentous, era-defining performance that catapulted Chopra into the spotlight and turned him into the biggest non-cricketing sports star in India. Despite the heady reception after his Tokyo triumph, Chopra, with guidance from long-time coach Klaus Bartonietz, has gone about his business with laser focus.
Indian sport has rarely seen a clutch performer like him. Since Tokyo, he has competed in 15 events and never done worse than a second place. Nine of those events have finished with Chopra clinching the top spot. In the last three years, he has won the Olympics, the World Championship (2023), the Diamond League final (2022), and defended his Asian Games gold (2023).
“It was nice to win gold in Tokyo,” Chopra had said in Doha, where he finished second this year. “The main thing was that I handled the pressure of such a big competition. It instilled a sense of belief in me that I can compete with the best in the world.”
The Road to Paris
As the Paris Olympics 2024 approach, all eyes are on Neeraj Chopra. His journey from a small village in Haryana to the global stage has been nothing short of inspirational. His training regimen, under the watchful eyes of Bartonietz, is a blend of traditional and modern techniques, ensuring he remains at the pinnacle of his sport.
Chopra’s ability to handle pressure is one of his defining traits. In Tokyo, the weight of a nation’s expectations did not deter him; instead, it propelled him to greatness. This mental fortitude, combined with his physical prowess, makes him a formidable contender in Paris.
A Nation’s Hope
Neeraj Chopra is not just an athlete; he is a symbol of hope and aspiration for millions of Indians. His success has inspired a new generation of athletes to dream big and aim for the stars. As he prepares for the Paris Olympics, the entire nation is behind him, cheering him on and hoping for another golden moment.
The 2024 Paris Olympics present another opportunity for Chopra to etch his name in the annals of history. With his consistent performances and unwavering determination, there is a strong belief that he can once again deliver for India. His journey is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and a never-give-up attitude.
As the Paris Olympics unfold, Neeraj Chopra’s quest for another gold medal is a story that resonates with many. His achievements have already cemented his legacy, but another Olympic gold would elevate him to even greater heights. Whether he stands atop the podium once more or not, Chopra’s impact on Indian sports and his role in inspiring future generations is undeniable. The stage is set, and the world is watching. Can Neeraj Chopra deliver again for India? If his past performances are any indication, the answer is a resounding yes.
Event Time
Neeraj Chopra, meanwhile, will compete in the men’s javelin throw event, with qualifications on August 6 and finals two days later. He is the reigning champion of the tournament.
PARIS 2024 OLYMPICS INDIA SCHEDULE
Paris 2024 Olympics schedule for Indian athletes
| No | Sport | Start Date | End Date | Medal events Indians competing in | No. of Indian athletes competing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Archery | July 25 | August 4 | 5 | 6 |
| 2 | Athletics | August 1 | August 10 | 16 | 29 |
| 3 | Badminton | July 27 | August 5 | 4 | 7 |
| 4 | Boxing | July 27 | August 10 | 6 | 6 |
| 5 | Equestrian | July 30 | August 4 | 1 | 1 |
| 6 | Golf | August 1 | August 10 | 2 | 4 |
| 7 | Hockey | July 27 | August 8 | 1 | 16 |
| 8 | Judo | August 2 | August 2 | 1 | 1 |
| 9 | Rowing | July 27 | August 3 | 1 | 1 |
| 10 | Sailing | August 1 | August 6 | 2 | 2 |
| 11 | Shooting | July 27 | August 5 | 15 | 21 |
| 12 | Swimming | July 28 | July 29 | 2 | 2 |
| 13 | Table tennis | July 27 | August 10 | 4 | 6 |
| 14 | Tennis | July 27 | August 4 | 2 | 3 |
| 15 | Wrestling | August 5 | August 11 | 6 | 6 |
| 16 | Weightlifting | August 7 | August 7 | 1 | 1 |
| Total | 16 | 69 | 112 |
FAQs:
Who is Neeraj Chopra?
Neeraj Chopra is an Indian javelin thrower who gained international fame by winning the gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. He is also the reigning World Champion and Diamond League champion.
What are Neeraj Chopra’s major achievements?
Neeraj Chopra has won numerous accolades, including the Olympic gold medal (2020), the World Championship (2023), the Diamond League final (2022), and the Asian Games gold (2018 and 2023).
When did the Paris Olympics 2024 begin?
The Paris Olympics 2024 began on 26 July 2024.
What makes Neeraj Chopra stand out in the world of javelin?
Neeraj Chopra stands out due to his consistent top performances, his ability to handle pressure, and his success in a predominantly European sport. His dedication, training, and focus have made him one of the best in the world.
How has Neeraj Chopra performed since the Tokyo Olympics?
Since the Tokyo Olympics, Neeraj Chopra has competed in 15 events, securing first place in nine and never finishing below second place. His notable wins include the World Championship (2023) and the Diamond League final (2022).
Who is Neeraj Chopra’s coach?
Neeraj Chopra’s coach is Klaus Bartonietz, a German biomechanics expert who has been instrumental in Chopra’s training and success.
What is Neeraj Chopra’s training regimen?
Neeraj Chopra’s training regimen is a blend of traditional and modern techniques, focusing on strength, flexibility, and technique, tailored to ensure he remains at the pinnacle of his sport.
How does Neeraj Chopra handle the pressure of big competitions?
Neeraj Chopra handles pressure through mental fortitude and preparation. He credits his ability to perform under pressure to his experiences in past competitions and the guidance of his coach.
What are India’s expectations from Neeraj Chopra in the Paris Olympics 2024?
India has high expectations from Neeraj Chopra in the Paris Olympics 2024, hoping he can deliver another gold medal and build on his historic success at the Tokyo Olympics.
Why is Neeraj Chopra’s success important for Indian sports?
Neeraj Chopra’s success is important for Indian sports as it inspires a new generation of athletes to aim high and dream big. His achievements have brought global recognition to Indian athletics and have boosted the morale of sports enthusiasts across the country.