An exclusive one-on-one with Indian athlete and Olympic Gold Medalist Neeraj Chopra

By Dipti Nair

You cannot hide talent. Indian track and field athlete, Neeraj Chopra's incredible journey from a humble family in rural India to Olympic gold proves that with talent and determination, success is inevitable. As the reigning champion in men's javelin, he's rewriting records and inspiring millions. He is currently the reigning Olympic champion and World champion in Men's javelin throw. He is the first Asian athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in javelin and the first Asian to win gold in his event at the World Championship. His success at the Tokyo Olympic Games gained him recognition as the first Indian track and field athlete to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games. His best throw currently is 89.94m which was achieved at the Wanda Diamond League Stockholm in June 2022.

He was recently in Doha to compete in the 2024 Wanda Diamond League held on May 10, 2024 at the Qatar Sports Club. He is also the sports ambassador for Omega and Qatar Living had an exclusive one-on-one with him at the Omega showroom in Doha Festival City.

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Qatar Living: How are you gearing up for the Wanda Diamond League in Qatar? Do you feel confident about clinching another victory this season?

Neeraj Chopra: Well, my first time here was in 2018 where I secured fourth place, setting a national record. Last year, I emerged victorious with a world-lead mark. Now, returning for the third time, I'm feeling good and optimistic about what's to come. Let's see what happens.

QL: How is your preparation progressing for this event?

NC: My training has been excellent, and this event marks the opening of my season in Doha, just like last year. It's a significant competition for all javelin athletes because many of us begin our season here. So, this event sets the tone for the rest of the season. 

QL: Are you targeting the 90-meter milestone today? 

NC: Absolutely. My personal best stands at 89.94 meters, and without a doubt, I'm aiming to surpass the 90-meter mark. Doha is renowned for such feats, but occasionally, adverse headwinds pose a significant challenge for us athletes. Speed is crucial for our runway approach and throw. If we encounter excessively strong headwinds, it could certainly affect our performance. However, I'm hopeful that it won't be too detrimental.

QL: What are your impressions of Qatar as a sporting hub?

NC: Qatar has emerged as a significant destination for sports, especially after the FIFA World Cup. I've noticed a considerable shift in investment towards athletics, evident from encountering numerous athletes from Qatar during my travels to places like South Africa and Turkey. It's commendable that they're not just channeling funds into hosting events like FIFA, but also into nurturing athletes. Qatar has produced remarkable talents like Mutaz Barshim, known globally for his athletic prowess. Overall, it's truly promising.

QL: With the Paris Olympics drawing near, we are optimistic about your chances of bringing home another gold medal for India at the Olympics. 

NC: Thank you for your faith in me. However, I prefer not to dwell on expectations and take pressure. Instead, I'll focus on training diligently and giving my best effort. Your support means a lot, and I'll do everything I can to make India proud.

QL: How did you decide to pursue javelin throw as your sport?

NC: Interestingly, there's no history of javelin throwing either in my family or village. It all began when I started going to the stadium for fitness purposes. Watching other athletes throwing javelin sparked my interest, and I decided to give it a try. Starting with basic training, my passion for javelin grew immensely over the years. Now, after a decade or so of dedication, I find myself sitting here with you, having won numerous titles. It's been quite a journey, and I'm grateful for where it has led me.

QL: You're not just a source of pride for India, but also a youth icon whose story inspires countless individuals across the nation. Do you feel that your success in javelin throwing has motivated the younger generation to pursue the sport?

NC: While I prefer not to speak about my achievements, I've heard from fellow athletes that my Olympic gold has served as a source of inspiration. They've expressed belief in their ability to compete against European and American athletes. It's heartening to know that my success has ignited this sense of possibility among them. Indeed, now javelin throwing has become a big sport in India.

QL: Could you share a few words about your association with Omega?

NC: Absolutely. Being a part of the Omega family has been an incredible journey so far. Omega's rich history, particularly its longstanding partnership with the Olympics, is something I’m glad to be a part of. I admire their commitment to precision timing, evident in their collaboration with events like the Olympics, as well as their iconic role in space exploration, including the moon landing. Additionally, I'm fond of their James Bond watch collection. It's a privilege to be associated with a brand that not only values excellence but also embodies such remarkable legacies.

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