"When we meet we will discuss about your injury and what measures are needed" - PM Modi calls up Neeraj Chopra post Paris Olympics triumph
Neeraj Chopra, a gold medalist at the Tokyo Olympics three years back, had to settle for a second place on the podium and a silver medal yesterday in the men's javelin throw final at the Paris Olympics. Arshad Nadeem from Pakistan outwitted everyone to bag the gold medal.
Neeraj Chopra's throws in the final were perhaps not his best. Although he did create a new season best with his second throw of 89.45m, the other five throws were adjudged as foul throws. The 26-year-old had certain injury problems, maybe that could have played a part in the athlete's performance at the Games.
Nonetheless, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Neeraj Chopra to cheer him up. He congratulated him and also spoke about the injury the javelin stalwart is facing. He said:
"Many congratulations to you. You have made India proud once again. The entire nation looked up to you with hope at 1 am in the night."
The 26-year-old shyly answered back:
"Everyone expected gold. I put my best effort. There were some injuries so I couldn't push the entire thing. The competition was tough. Throwing at such a situation and bringing a medal for the country, I'm happy for that."
The Prime Minister lauded his efforts and also promised to discuss about his injury when they meet. He said:
"You did very well. Last time also you won a medal. You had told me that the competition is tough in Javelin. When we meet, we will discuss about your injury and what measures are needed to overcome that. You have to reach greater heights. Once again congratulations to you."
Neeraj Chopra determined to bounce back
The Olympics final was perhaps not one of the decent performances Neeraj Chopra has put in on the grand stage. A winner at the Olympics, World Championships, Asian Games and numerous other competitions, Chopra will now be coming back home to work hard for the upcoming events.
He promised the same to the Prime Minister:
"There will be ups and downs in sport. I'll come back and work harder and perform better in the upcoming events."
Neeraj Chopra's next major event will be the 2025 World Championships, which will be held in Tokyo. He will also be participating in the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 and would aim to reclaim his throne at the top of the javelin pyramid.