Neeraj Chopra: “Hopefully, It Happens Before Paris Olympics” in reference to breaking the elusive 90-meter mark

Neeraj Chopra, an Olympic gold medalist in javelin throwing, is aiming to cross the 90-metre barrier before the Olympics in Paris. With the pace at which his preparations are going, he is certain that reaching this milestone may occur sooner rather than later.

Chopra’s throw in competition stands at 89.94 metres, a personal best he accomplished in the Stockholm Diamond League in 2022. He hasn’t been able to duplicate this feat in formal events, even though he has surpassed the 90-metre barrier in training.

The 26-year-old said on Thursday, “I will try to breach the 90-metre mark before that (the Paris Olympics),” indicating that he plans to defend his Olympic title. Ideally, it occurs before Paris, and everything proceeds without a hitch. As a result, it may occur before the Olympics, saving people’s patience. It’s well-prepared.”

The current world champion’s confidence is a result of his achievement after his gold medal in 2020 in Tokyo, as well as his successful off-season when he concentrated on strength and conditioning.

“At the beginning of the season, strength and fitness were prioritised above dedicated javelin training. Because of it, I believe my technique has really improved. Additionally, the strength and conditioning training in Turkey and South Africa has also gone well, Chopra said virtually from Turkey.

Chopra went on to say that his “self-confidence” had increased significantly after the Tokyo Olympics, which would be very beneficial for him in Paris.

“There has been a noticeable increase in self-confidence since Tokyo. In addition, I’ve participated in a number of competitions; I’ve won two world titles, a silver and a gold there, the Diamond League trophy, numerous excellent throws, and the Asian Games gold (in Hangzhou) as well.

“So, the success between Tokyo and Paris has given me a lot of confidence that yes, I can do it against strong competitors,” said Chopra.

“I am more psychologically and physically ready for Paris this time around since my head tells me it’s the second Olympics. Though I haven’t done much in the way of mental preparation, I am aware that this is my second Olympics, and I feel that way.

Chopra said that after his victory in Tokyo, he had made an effort to improve his technique.

“I worked on whatever weaknesses I had before going to Tokyo and in the years going up to Paris. The nicest thing is that everything is going well and I have a lot of optimism.”

Chopra’s competitive season will start on May 10 at the Doha Diamond League Meeting. On June 18, he will compete in the famous Paavo Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland, where he will face Germany’s newest member of the 90m club, 19-year-old wonder Max Dehning.

“To regain that competitive spirit (after the off-season), these two tournaments are extremely important in the lead-up to the Olympics.” Along with choosing which tournaments to enter, I will also confer with my coach and team.”

Dahlin, who recently threw a 90.20-metre throw, has shown himself to be a formidable opponent and will provide Chopra with a significant test in the coming months. However, Chopra said that he is looking forward to competing against him.

“Most of my opponents boasted of having more than ninety throws when they came in to participate in Tokyo and other places. It’s not that big of a problem, then. It’s what you do on that specific day that counts.

“I am eager to face Dahlin in competition. However, it is contingent upon the level of pressure that they (the rivals) can withstand. The largest obstacle is that. I’m certain that Max (Dahlin) and I will play a lot of matches. never engaged in play with him before. I think it will be fascinating and enjoyable.

“He totally ignored the 80 metres. Straightway made a 90-metre throw from 70 metres. This is the first time that has occurred, and I look forward to his challenge,” Chopra said.