Neeraj Chopra: The Inspiring Journey Of India’s Javelin Sensation
| Name: | Neeraj Chopra |
| Born: | 24 December 1997 in Khandra, Haryana, India |
| Education: | DAV College, Chandigarh |
| Height: | 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in) |
| Weight: | 86 kg (190 lb) |
| Father’s name: | Satish Kumar Chopra |
| Mother’s name: | Saroj Devi Chopra |
| Marital Status: | Single |
| Military Rank: | JCO (Junior Commissioned Officer) in the rank of Subedar |
| Military career: | Serves in the Indian Army with the rank of Subedar in the 4 Rajputana Rifles unit, since 2016 |
| Sport: | Track and field, specializing in Javelin throw |
| Coached by: | Klaus Bartonietz (2021–present) and Uwe Hohn (2018–2021) |
Introduction
In the heartland of India, where dreams often seem distant and obstacles are insurmountable, a young boy named Neeraj Chopra was born on the 24th of December 1997. His journey, a testament to the indomitable spirit of human potential, would later resonate as a symphony of triumph, resilience, and inspiration.
Neeraj’s story is one that embodies the very essence of perseverance and hard work. As a child, he found solace and purpose in the realm of sports. Little did the world know that this passion would kindle a fire within him that would not only change his life but also uplift an entire nation.
As he grew, so did his prowess in the world of track and field. The arena became his canvas, and the javelin became an extension of his arm. With every throw, he etched his mark deeper into the annals of history. Neeraj’s relentless dedication saw him rising through the ranks, breaking barriers that had long confined Indian athletes.
In the global sporting arena, Neeraj Chopra emerged as a radiant star. His achievements, too numerous to count, stand as testaments to his unyielding commitment. He shattered records, broke stereotypes, and paved a path where none had dared to tread. The Olympics, the pinnacle of athletic dreams, bore witness to his brilliance as he clinched the gold medal, not just for himself, but for an entire nation that watched with bated breath.
But it was not merely the medals that defined Neeraj; it was his humility, his unassuming demeanour in the face of victory, and his unwavering dedication that won hearts around the world. The boy who had once dared to dream was now a beacon of hope for countless others, proving that with relentless determination, even the loftiest goals can be achieved.
Neeraj Chopra’s journey is a source of motivation for anyone who aspires to achieve greatness. It is a reminder that hard work, discipline, and self-belief can overcome even the most formidable challenges. His legacy has transcended the realms of sports; it has become a symbol of what it means to be an embodiment of one’s dreams, to transform adversity into opportunity, and to hoist the tricolor of one’s country on the grandest stages of the world.
As we delve into the life of Neeraj Chopra, we find not just the story of an athlete, but a narrative that stirs the very core of our souls. It ignites the fire of ambition, the desire to surmount hurdles, and the courage to dream beyond horizons. Neeraj’s journey teaches us that every setback can be a setup for a comeback, and every dream, no matter how audacious, can be woven into reality with unwavering dedication.
Latest Update (Zurich Diamond League, 2023)
Neeraj Chopra, fresh from his gold medal triumph at the World Athletics Championships, faced a new challenge in the Zurich Diamond League. He secured the second position with a best attempt of 85.71 meters. His initial throw measured 80.79 meters in his first attempt, but he encountered a foul in both his second and third attempts. These setbacks temporarily placed him in fifth position, while Germany’s Julian Weber led the competition.
This recent achievement underscores Neeraj Chopra’s resilience and determination, showing that even after reaching the summit of success, the path to greatness is paved with continuous challenges. It serves as a reminder that champions shine brightest in the face of adversity.
Early Life And Education: Nurturing Greatness In Humble Beginnings
The story of Neeraj Chopra is a saga of transforming humble origins into a tapestry of excellence that would eventually make an entire nation swell with pride on the world stage. Born into a Haryanvi Ror family in Khandra, Panipat, Haryana, on the 24th of December 1997, Neeraj’s journey from these modest beginnings would soon set an extraordinary trajectory.
Growing up as the son of hardworking parents deeply involved in agriculture, Neeraj imbibed the values of diligence and perseverance from a young age. He was raised alongside two sisters, in an environment where dreams often seemed distant, yet he was destined to transcend these limitations.
Neeraj’s educational voyage began at BVN Public School, where he not only acquired knowledge but also honed the tenacity that would become his hallmark. It was during these formative years that his affinity for sports began to emerge as a defining aspect of his character.
His educational journey led him to Dayanand Anglo-Vedic College in Chandigarh, where he pursued his academic growth with the same determination he displayed on the field. As of 2021, he was also pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lovely Professional University in Jalandhar, Punjab – a testament to his commitment to both education and his chosen path in athletics.
Athletics Career
Neeraj’s journey truly gained momentum when he set foot in the Panipat Sports Authority of India (SAI) center. Here, he met Akshay Choudhary, a javelin thrower hailing from Ghaziabad. Choudhary recognized Chopra’s innate talent, evidenced by his ability to achieve a 40-meter throw even without formal training. Impressed by this natural gift and fuelled by Chopra’s unyielding determination, Choudhary took on the role of his first coach.
Under Choudhary’s mentorship, Chopra delved into the fundamentals of javelin throwing. Learning from more experienced athletes who had trained under a javelin coach in Jalandhar, he rapidly progressed in skill and technique. His dedication yielded tangible results, as he secured his first medal—a bronze—in the district championships.
1. From Districts to Nationals: A Journey of Excellence
As Chopra’s passion for javelin throwing intensified, so did his commitment to excellence. A crucial turning point came when, after a year of training under Choudhary, he gained admission to the Tau Devi Lal Sports Complex in Panchkula. This facility, equipped with a synthetic runway, provided an ideal platform for him to refine his skills.
Guided by coach Naseem Ahmad, Chopra’s training took on a comprehensive approach. While mastering the art of javelin throwing, he simultaneously embraced long-distance running. The absence of a specialized javelin coach did not deter him; he and fellow athlete Parminder Singh turned to videos of Czech champion Jan Zelezny for inspiration, embodying the spirit of self-driven determination.
Chopra’s progress was undeniable. His throws, initially averaging around 55 meters, gradually extended as he honed his technique and strength. This progression culminated in a historic moment at the National Junior Athletics Championships in Lucknow in 2012. With a throw of 68.40 meters, Chopra clinched the gold and set a new national record, signalling his emergence as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
2. From Local Fields to Global Arenas:
Neeraj Chopra’s journey from a small village in India to becoming a global sensation is a saga of relentless determination, unyielding dedication, and monumental achievements. His story not only serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes but also stands as a testament to the power of hard work in shaping destinies and making a nation proud on the world stage.
Chopra’s initiation into the world of sports was marked by overcoming personal challenges. As a child grappling with childhood obesity, he found himself in a gymnasium at Madlauda, guided by his father’s wisdom. This pivotal step not only transformed his physique but ignited a spark within him to explore his physical capabilities further.
A serendipitous encounter at the Shivaji Stadium in Panipat with javelin throwers set the stage for Chopra’s tryst with destiny. Driven by an innate passion, he took his first steps into the world of javelin throwing. His journey took an even more remarkable turn when he joined the Panipat Sports Authority of India (SAI) center. Here, Akshay Choudhary recognized his raw talent, and under Choudhary’s guidance, Chopra embarked on the path of becoming a force to be reckoned with in the world of athletics.
3. The Global Spotlight: International Beginnings:
Chopra’s foray onto the international stage began with the 2013 World Youth Championships in Ukraine. This marked a significant milestone as he tested his mettle against global contenders. The following year, he clinched a silver medal at the Youth Olympics Qualification in Bangkok, cementing his presence on the international map.
Chopra’s journey was punctuated by significant achievements, including his first throw of over 70 meters at the 2014 senior nationals. However, it was in 2015 that he etched his name in the annals of athletics history. Breaking the world record in the junior category with a throw of 81.04 meters at the All India Inter-University Athletics meet, Chopra showcased his ability to consistently push boundaries.
Despite challenges, such as finishing fifth at the 2015 National Games in Kerala, Chopra’s resilience and promise did not go unnoticed. He received an invitation to the national-level training camp, leading him to bid adieu to Panchkula and commence training at the prestigious Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports in Patiala. This transition marked a pivotal juncture, as Chopra gained access to superior facilities, top-tier coaching, and an environment that fuelled his aspirations.
4. Rising to the Challenge: 2016–2018:
Chopra’s trajectory of success continued in the years that followed. At the 2016 South Asian Games, he unleashed his potential, winning gold with a throw of 82.23 meters. While falling slightly short of the Olympic qualifying mark, this achievement was a testament to his progress and determination.
The pursuit of excellence led Chopra to train under Australian coach Gary Calvert, a move that underscored his commitment to constant growth. He made history by securing a gold medal at the 2016 IAAF World U20 Championships in Bydgoszcz, Poland, where he set a world junior record of 86.48 meters—a feat that made him the first Indian athlete to achieve a world record while simultaneously setting a new national record.
Chopra’s journey was not without setbacks, as a back injury sustained during the 2016 Federation Cup in New Delhi impacted his preparations for the 2016 Summer Olympics. Despite this challenge, his indomitable spirit and relentless work ethic remained unshaken.
5. Stepping onto the World Stage: International Debut and Triumphs:
Chopra’s foray onto the international scene unfolded in 2013 at the World Youth Championships in Ukraine. With every throw, he announced his arrival as a formidable contender. His breakthrough continued with a silver at the Youth Olympics Qualification in Bangkok in 2014, cementing his status as a rising star.
The year 2015 witnessed Chopra’s historic feat, as he shattered the junior world record with a javelin throw of 81.04 meters at the All India Inter-University Athletics meet. This milestone marked a turning point, affirming his potential to shine on a global platform. Despite finishing fifth at the 2015 National Games in Kerala, he showcased unwavering determination, earning a place in the national-level training camp. Relocating to the prestigious Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports in Patiala, he embraced superior facilities and intensive coaching under the tutelage of experts like Kashinath Naik.
The year 2016 unveiled a series of accomplishments. Chopra secured gold at the South Asian Games with a throw of 82.23 meters, setting a new personal best. His training regime extended to working with Australian coach Gary Calvert, underscoring his commitment to continuous improvement.
6. Glorious Triumphs and National Pride:
Chopra’s pursuit of excellence reached its zenith in 2018. His javelin soared to a season-best of 86.47 meters at the Commonwealth Games, making him the first Indian to claim gold in the javelin throw category. The Doha Diamond League witnessed him shattering the national record once again, with a throw of 87.43 meters.
The Asian Games marked another historic milestone. Chopra’s debut showcased his prowess, as he clinched gold with a throw of 88.06 meters, not only securing victory but also raising India’s flag high as the proud flag-bearer during the Parade of Nations.
His unwavering commitment led to accolades, including the Arjuna Award and an out-of-turn promotion by the army. Preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics saw him refining his technique under the guidance of experts like German coach Uwe Hohn, biomechanics specialist Klaus Bartonietz, and physiotherapist Ishaan Marwaha.
Injury and Determination: A Journey of Recovery
Chopra’s path to glory faced a major hurdle when he was side-lined due to bone spurs in his right elbow, causing him to miss the 2019 World Championships in Doha. Undeterred by this setback, he underwent surgery on 3 May 2019, just a day after the qualifying competitions for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics had commenced. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a journey filled with determination, grit, and unwavering resolve.
During his recovery phase, Chopra embraced a holistic approach. Meditation and rehabilitative training in Patiala and the Inspire Institute of Sport at Vijayanagar played a vital role in his recuperation. Seeking excellence, he embarked on a journey to South Africa in November 2019, where he underwent training under the guidance of German biomechanics expert Klaus Bartoneitz. Prior to this, Chopra had honed his skills under coaches Gary Calvert and Werner Daniels.
Triumphant Return: Overcoming Adversity with Courage:
Emerging from a 16-month hiatus, Chopra marked his victorious comeback in January 2020. In the Athletics Central North West League Meeting in Potchefstroom, South Africa, he unleashed a throw of 87.86 meters, exceeding the 85-meter qualification distance for the Tokyo Olympiad. This comeback was a testament to his unbreakable spirit and unwavering commitment to his sport.
However, fate had another challenge in store. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic forced Chopra to adapt once again. As India went into lockdown, he continued to refine his skills at the NIS Patiala. Despite the adversity, his dedication remained unshaken.
Pushing Boundaries: A Relentless Pursuit of Excellence:
In the face of adversity, Chopra’s perseverance shone bright. The Athletics Federation of India and the Odisha state government joined hands to support the national javelin team, organizing a training camp at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. From December 2020 through February 2021, Chopra seized this opportunity to further enhance his skills.
March 5, 2021, marked another historic moment. Chopra once again broke his own national record, achieving a remarkable throw of 88.07 meters, ranking him among the top internationally. Despite the pandemic’s challenges, his unwavering commitment to his craft remained undiminished.
A Global Comeback: Rising Above Challenges:
Even in the face of adversity, Chopra’s dreams soared higher. Though faced with visa rejections and pandemic-related complications, he persevered. With the support of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Ministry of External Affairs, he embarked on a journey to Europe. He triumphantly opened his international season in 2021 with a gold-winning throw of 83.18 meters at the Meeting Cidade de Lisboa in Portugal.
Chopra’s journey continued with gold at the Karlstad Meet in Sweden and a bronze at the Kuortane Games in Finland in 2022. Challenges persisted, from adapting to different javelins to facing visa hurdles. However, his tenacity and dedication remained unbreakable.
Olympic Debut: A Moment of Destiny:
August 4, 2021, marked a significant milestone in Neeraj Chopra’s career as he stepped onto the grand stage of the Olympics, representing India at the Japan National Stadium. Competing in the men’s javelin throw, he displayed his mettle by emerging as the leader of his qualifying group, showcasing a throw of 86.65 meters. This performance earned him a coveted spot in the final, setting the stage for a historic showdown.
A Historic Victory: Carving His Name in Gold:
On August 7, 2021, Neeraj Chopra etched his name in the annals of Indian sporting history with an awe-inspiring throw of 87.58 meters, securing the gold medal in the men’s javelin throw event. This momentous triumph made him the first Indian Olympian to seize a gold medal in athletics, a feat that resonated deeply with the hearts of the nation.
Chopra’s achievement not only brought joy to his fellow citizens but also paved the way for India to secure a total of seven medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, surpassing the previous record of six medals earned at the 2012 London Olympics. This monumental achievement stands as a testament to his dedication, unwavering spirit, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
An International Sensation: Rising in the Rankings:
As a result of his awe-inspiring performance in Tokyo, Neeraj Chopra’s stature in the world of athletics skyrocketed. He ascended to the second rank globally among men’s javelin throw athletes, a recognition of his exceptional talent and tireless efforts to perfect his craft. This achievement solidified his position as one of the brightest stars on the international sporting horizon.
A Historic Question: A Legacy Beyond Borders:
The narrative of Neeraj Chopra’s victory, however, became the subject of a historic debate. While some historians assert that he is the first Indian track and field Olympic medalist, others recognize Norman Pritchard, who competed at the 1900 Paris Olympics under British rule, as the first. Regardless of the debate, Chopra’s triumph remains a symbol of contemporary Indian excellence on the global stage.
Continued Excellence: Building on Olympic Glory:
Following his momentous victory in Tokyo, Neeraj Chopra remained committed to his pursuit of excellence. In June 2022, at the Paavo Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland, he showcased his relentless drive by securing second place with a remarkable throw of 89.30 meters, setting a new personal best and breaking the national record once again. This achievement underscored his unwavering commitment to improvement and set the stage for further triumphs.
Elevating the Bar: New Records and Consistent Performance:
Chopra’s journey of breaking records and achieving new heights continued at the Stockholm Diamond League. With a throw of 89.94 meters, he once again shattered his own national record and solidified his position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of athletics. This consistent performance highlighted his ability to push boundaries and consistently deliver exceptional results.
World Championships Glory: A Silver Lining:
In July 2022, Chopra added another remarkable chapter to his career by securing a historic silver medal in the men’s javelin throw at the Oregon World Championships. This achievement marked India’s second medal at the World Athletics Championships, a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional skill. Chopra’s silver medal underscored his position as one of the world’s finest javelin throwers.
A Trail of Victories: Setting New Records:
August 26, 2022, marked another triumph in Chopra’s journey as he clinched first place at the Lausanne Diamond League with a throw of 89.09 meters, showcasing his remarkable consistency. This victory not only reaffirmed his status as a global javelin thrower par excellence but also qualified him for the prestigious Zürich Final, where he once again emerged as the champion.
Charting Uncharted Territories: The Road to 2023 World Championships:
In May 2023, Chopra added another jewel to his crown by securing the top spot in the Doha Diamond League with a throw of 88.67 meters. This achievement was a testament to his unrelenting commitment to excellence, and in the same month, he reached a significant milestone by achieving the first position in the men’s javelin throw rankings issued by World Athletics.
World Championships Triumph: A Culmination of Excellence:
August 2023 witnessed the pinnacle of Neeraj Chopra’s journey, as he stood atop the podium at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, adorned with a gold medal. With a throw of 88.17 meters, he showcased his unmatched prowess and etched his name in the annals of sporting history once again. This victory was a fitting testament to his relentless hard work, perseverance, and the unending support of a nation that stood behind him.
The Indian Army's Call
Neeraj’s exceptional talent on the field could not escape the keen eyes of those who recognized his potential to not only excel in sports but also to bring glory to the nation. His breakout performance at the South Asian Games served as a prelude to his meteoric rise, impressing both spectators and critics alike.
Among those who recognized Neeraj’s prowess was the Indian Army, an institution that values discipline, determination, and dedication – qualities embodied by Neeraj himself. Recognizing his extraordinary potential, the Indian Army extended a remarkable offer that would further shape Neeraj’s destiny.
Neeraj Chopra was presented with a direct appointment as a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) in the Rajputana Rifles, with the prestigious rank of Naib Subedar. This unique offer was a testament to his remarkable achievements and the potential he held to bring honour to both the army and the nation.
Accepting this offer, Neeraj embarked on a new chapter of his life, marrying his dedication to sports with his commitment to serving the country. His induction into the army under the sports quota was not merely an honour; it was an alignment of his dreams with the path he had forged through years of hard work and unwavering spirit.
Notable Achievements By Year
1. 2013:
World U18 Championships
- Venue: Donetsk, Ukraine
- Position: 19th (q)
- Event: Javelin throw (700 g)
- Result: 66.75 m
2. 2015:
Asian Championships
- Venue: Wuhan, China
- Position: 9th
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 70.50 m
3. 2016:
South Asian Games
- Venue: Guwahati, India
- Position: 1st place, gold medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 82.23 m
Asian U20 Championships
- Venue: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Position: 2nd place, silver medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 77.60 m
World U20 Championships
- Venue: Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Position: 1st place, gold medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 86.48 m (WU20R)
4. 2017:
Asian Championships
- Venue: Bhubaneswar, India
- Position: 1st place, gold medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 85.23 m
World Championships
- Venue: London, United Kingdom
- Position: 15th (q)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 82.26 m
5. 2018:
Savo Games
Sotteville Athletics Meet
Commonwealth Games
- Venue: Gold Coast, Australia
- Position: 1st place, gold medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 86.47 m
Asian Games
- Venue: Jakarta, Indonesia
- Position: 1st place, gold medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 88.06 m (NR)
6. 2021:
Olympic Games
- Venue: Tokyo, Japan
- Position: 1st place, gold medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 87.58 m
7. 2022:
Meeting Cidade de Lisboa
Folksam Grand Prix
Kuortane Games
Circuit Wins and Titles
- Diamond League Javelin Throw Champion
Diamond League Events
- Lausanne Athletissima, Zürich Weltklasse
World Championships
- Venue: Eugene, OR, United States
- Position: 2nd place, silver medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 88.13 m
8. 2023:
World Championships
- Venue: Budapest, Hungary
- Position: 1st place, gold medalist(s)
- Event: Javelin throw
- Result: 88.17 m
Zurich Diamond League
- Venue: Zurich, Switzerland
- Position: 2nd
- Event: Javelin throw
- Best Attempt: 85.71m
Seasonal Best Performances By Year
The below performances highlight Neeraj Chopra’s consistent improvement and remarkable achievements in the javelin throw event throughout the years:
2013
- Date: 26 July
- Performance: 69.66 meters
- Place: Patiala, India
2014
- Date: 17 August
- Performance: 70.19 meters
2015
- Date: 31 December
- Performance: 81.04 meters
2016
- Date: 23 July
- Performance: 86.48 meters (World Junior Record – WJR, World U20 Record – WU20R)
- Place: Bydgoszcz, Poland
2017
- Date: 2 June
- Performance: 85.63 meters
- Place: Patiala, India
2018
- Date: 27 August
- Performance: 88.06 meters
- Place: Jakarta, Indonesia
2020
- Date: 28 January
- Performance: 87.86 meters
- Place: South Africa
2021
- Date: 5 March
- Performance: 88.07 meters
- Place: Patiala, India
2022
- Date: 30 June
- Performance: 89.94 meters
- Place: Stockholm, Sweden
Awards
Ribbon bar:
| Param Vishisht Seva Medal |  |
| Padma Shri |  |
| Vishisht Seva Medal |  |
| 75th Independence Anniversary Medal |  |
National Awards:
- Arjuna Award – 2018[97]
- Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) – 2020 Republic Day honours
- Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award – 2021 (highest sporting honour of India)
- Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) – 2022 Republic Day honours
- Padma Shri (fourth highest civilian honour) – 2022 Republic Day honours
Other Recognitions:
- The Times of India TOISA Sportsperson of the Year: 2021
- The Army Sports Institute (ASI) stadium of Pune cantonment was renamed “Neeraj Chopra Stadium” by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on 27 August 2021.
- Switzerland Tourism appointed Neeraj Chopra as its Friendship Ambassador.
These awards and recognitions showcase Neeraj Chopra’s exceptional contributions to sports and his significant impact on the field of athletics in India and beyond.
Top 13 Interesting Facts
Neeraj Chopra’s journey from a small town in India to becoming an Olympic champion is an inspiring tale of grit, determination, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. The top 13 facts about Neeraj Chopra are as follows: –
Neeraj Chopra, born on December 24, 1997, in India, overcame childhood obesity and local taunts to embark on a remarkable journey in athletics.
His fascination with javelin throw began when he observed javelin throwers at the Shivaji Stadium in Panipat, which ultimately led him to participate in the sport.
Initially coached by Akshay Choudhary, Neeraj soon won his first medal, a bronze, at the district championships, inspiring his family to support his journey further.
After a year of training under Choudhary, he joined the Tau Devi Lal Sports Complex in Panchkula, Haryana, where he trained under Naseem Ahmad.
Neeraj entered the international scene in 2013 at the World Youth Championships in Ukraine, marking the beginning of his global journey.
In 2015, he broke the world record in the junior category with a throw of 81.04 meters at the All India Inter-University Athletics meet.
Neeraj secured gold at the 2017 Asian Athletics Championships and the 2018 Commonwealth Games in the javelin throw, breaking records along the way.
He faced setbacks, including a back injury in 2016 and bone spurs in his right elbow in 2019, which required surgery.
The Indian Army recognized his achievements and made him a Junior Commissioned Officer in the Rajputana Rifles, supporting his sports journey.
Neeraj made history at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, clinching India’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics with a throw of 87.58 meters in the javelin.
His Olympic win elevated him to the status of a global sports star, and he dedicated the victory to legendary Indian sprinters Milkha Singh and P.T. Usha.
Post-Olympics, he continued to shine by winning medals at the World Athletics Championships, Zurich Diamond League, and other prestigious events.
Neeraj Chopra’s outstanding contributions to Indian sports have been recognized with awards like the Arjuna Award, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Padma Shri, and others.
FAQs
Neeraj Chopra is an Indian athlete, specifically known for his excellence in the javelin throw. He rose to prominence as an Olympic gold medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Neeraj Chopra was born on December 24, 1997, in India’s Panipat district, Haryana.
Neeraj’s inspiration for the javelin throw came from watching athletes practising at the Shivaji stadium in Panipat. This initial fascination turned into a passion that drove him to excel in the sport.
Neeraj’s early successes include winning a bronze medal in the district championships and eventually setting a national record with a throw of 68.40 meters in the Junior Nationals in Lucknow.
Neeraj entered international competitions in 2013 when he participated in the World Youth Championships in Donetsk, Ukraine.
Neeraj won a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia, with a record-breaking javelin throw of 86.47 meters.
Neeraj Chopra won gold in the men’s javelin throw at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, with a throw of 88.06 meters.
Neeraj received the Arjuna Award in 2018 and the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021, which are prestigious national sports awards in India.
Neeraj Chopra made history by winning the gold medal in the javelin throw at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the first Indian track and field athlete to achieve this feat.
In 2022, Neeraj Chopra won a silver medal at the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, USA.
Fresh off his gold medal win at the World Athletics Championships, Neeraj Chopra finished second in the Zurich Diamond League with a best throw of 85.71m.
Neeraj Chopra was honoured with the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award in India, in 2022. He was also named The Times of India TOISA Sportsperson of the Year in 2021.
Neeraj Chopra’s incredible journey and achievements serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across India and worldwide. His story demonstrates that with dedication, hard work, and self-belief, anyone can achieve greatness.
