Neeraj Chopra, India’s pride and one of the greatest athletes in modern history, continues to redefine excellence in sports. A gold medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and silver medalist at the 2024 Paris Olympics, his journey is a testament to perseverance, dedication, and passion. Beyond his on-field achievements, Neeraj embodies humility and focus, inspiring millions. He shared his experiences, challenges, and aspirations in an exclusive conversation with our Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Ramesh Somani, along with a few insights into his life, revealing the man behind the javelin and what it takes to soar above expectations.
RS: Throwing a javelin might seem easy to spectators, but it’s much more complex. Could you walk us through the technique and effort it demands?
Neeraj: Absolutely, while javelin throwing might appear effortless to an observer, it is far from easy. The precision required during the run-up is crucial; the left leg must act like a brake in heavy traffic, stopping just in time before the white line. This intricate balance demands immense focus and control, as even a small misstep can result in a foul throw. Beyond the run-up, the sport places significant strain on the legs, shoulders, and arms, requiring peak physical conditioning. It’s a combination of technique, strength, and timing that makes every throw a challenging and demanding task.
RS: Anand Mahindra gifted you a Mahindra XUV 700. What was your reaction, and how much do you enjoy driving it?
Neeraj: Anand Mahindra’s gesture of sending me a customised Mahindra XUV 700 was truly overwhelming and a testament to his passion for sports and his support for athletes. While much of my time is spent outside India due to rigorous training schedules, driving a Mahindra whenever I’m in the country has become a special experience for me. The XUV 700 perfectly combines performance and comfort, making it an ideal companion on Indian roads.
RS: What’s the longest road trip you’ve ever taken, and how do you unwind during long drives?
Neeraj: The last time I came to India, I travelled from Panipat to Salasar Balaji Temple with my friends. The total distance we covered during that trip was more than 900 km as we went to another place while heading back to Panipat, and all of it was in one day. Long drives like these hold a special place in my heart, they offer a perfect escape from routine and a chance to reconnect with simple joys. When I go on a long drive, taking a break and having fresh air along with tea is my favourite thing to do. Adding to the experience, I love playing loud music in the car, which makes the journey more lively and memorable.
RS: Which brand would you like to collaborate with?
Neeraj: I am pleased with the brands I currently endorse, as they align well with my values and interests. However, I would be thrilled to collaborate with automobile brands, particularly Audi. Their vehicles, such as the R8 and RS Q8, have always fascinated me with their exceptional design, engineering, and performance. Partnering with a brand like Audi would not only resonate with my passion for speed and precision but also complement my love for innovation and excellence, both on and off the field.
RS: What was going through your mind when you stood on the Olympic podium with the gold medal?
Neeraj: Winning the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics stands as the greatest achievement of my life. Standing on the podium alongside the other medalists, with the Indian national anthem echoing through the stadium, was an indescribable moment of pride and fulfilment. At that moment, I truly felt the weight of my journey and the significance of what I had accomplished, not just for myself but for my country. That moment will forever remain a testament to the hard work, perseverance, and sacrifices that shaped my path as an athlete and person.
RS: You’ve spoken about your love for speed, whether driving or throwing a javelin. What draws you to these high-adrenaline experiences?
Neeraj: Throwing the javelin at full speed is an exhilarating experience that brings me an unmatched adrenaline rush. It’s a feeling of liberation and focus, where every ounce of energy channels into achieving the perfect throw. Interestingly, I find a similar thrill when I’m behind the wheel of a car. Driving at high speeds evokes the same sense of control and excitement, offering a unique satisfaction akin to my time on the field. Both experiences fuel my passion for pushing boundaries, whether on the track or the road, embodying a perfect blend of precision, power, and adrenaline.
RS: Arshad Nadeem outperformed you at the 2024 Paris Olympics. How do you view such challenges, and how have they influenced your growth as an athlete?
Neeraj: I have faced Arshad Nadeem in competition numerous times, but at the 2024 Paris Olympics, he surpassed me for the first time with an exceptional throw of 92.97 meters. It was a remarkable performance, and the day truly belonged to him. Throughout my journey as a javelin thrower, I have embraced every challenge as an opportunity to learn and have consistently strived to maintain a high level of performance in the sport.
RS: Your coaches, past and present, have been instrumental in your success. What impact has their mentorship had on your career?
Neeraj: Klaus Bartonietz, my former coach, had unwavering confidence in my potential as a javelin thrower. He believed that with a dedicated effort to refine my techniques and address my weaknesses, I could achieve remarkable milestones in the sport. Currently, I have the privilege of training under Jan Zelezny, a legend in javelin throwing who holds five of the nine best throws in history, including the unparalleled world record of 98.48 meters. His expertise and legacy continue to inspire and guide my journey toward excellence.
RS: Walking into the field on competition day is an intense moment for any athlete. How do you mentally prepare for such high-stakes events?
Neeraj: Whether it’s a long drive or a competition, preparation is key. On the day of the journey or the event, I focus solely on executing with full concentration and effort. The rest, planning, adjustments, and strategies are already in place. I aim to give my best, ensuring every step is intentional and purposeful.