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India’s ace athlete and two-time Olympic medallist, Neeraj Chopra is all set to return to competitive action with the start of the Diamond League. The Indian javelin thrower will resume his competitive season as he is set to participate at the Doha Diamond League, scheduled to be held on May 16 in the Qatari capital.
The 27-year-old last featured at the Diamond League 2024 finale in Brussels to culminate his season, where he finished second. His season also ended with his second-place finish at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games in August last year. Speaking ahead of the season, Chopra expressed excitement to compete in the upcoming season, making it his third straight year participating at the Wanda Diamond League meeting in Doha.
Neeraj Chopra to compete at the Jetour Doha Meeting for the third consecutive year
“I’m always overwhelmed by the support I get from the Indian people in Qatar - there aren’t enough words to thank them,” said the 27-year-old. “Last year taught me a lot, but I was proud to be on the podium for India once again at the Olympic Games. I’m now fully fit and really enjoying the hard work that Jan Železný and I are putting in. I’m looking forward to opening my season in Doha,” he continued.
The Indian Olympian also added, “The crowd at the Qatar Sports Club is always loud, and I think that brings out the best in all of us. I know the fans expect big things from me when I compete here - and with good conditions and a great atmosphere that’s definitely possible - but I pride myself on my consistency, which I believe is one of my greatest strengths. For me, that’s more important than just chasing a number.”
While it will be exciting to see Neeraj Chopra return to action, he will be seen with a new coach in world record holder Jan Zelezny. At the end of his 2024 season, the 27-year-old parted ways with his former coach Klaus Bartonietz, ending their five-year stint which saw the Indian athlete become the first track and field athelete from the country to win an Olympic gold and World Championship gold as well as the Diamond League title.
