Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with India’s star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and congratulated him on winning the silver medal at the Paris Olympics.
PM Modi’s Call
During their conversation, PM Modi praised Neeraj for his achievement and also acknowledged his injury. He complimented Neeraj’s sportsmanship, especially appreciating the support shown by his mother.
Neeraj Chopra’s Injury
Neeraj Chopra revealed after winning the silver medal that he might need surgery soon. He had been dealing with an inner thigh muscle injury (adductor) before the Paris Games. Despite this, he managed to achieve his best throw of 89.45 meters and won the silver medal. Neeraj is now the first Indian track and field athlete to win two Olympic medals, having previously won gold at the Tokyo Olympics.
Arshad Nadeem’s Victory
Neeraj Chopra finished behind Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, who won gold with a record throw of 92.97 meters. Nadeem became Pakistan’s first individual Olympic gold medalist.
Neeraj’s Struggle with Injury
Neeraj mentioned that he was constantly worried about his injury during the competition. He said, “A lot was going through my mind. When I was throwing, 60-70 percent of my focus was on the injury. I didn’t want to get injured.” He also noted that his speed was reduced because of his concern about the injury.
He added that doctors had advised surgery before the 2023 World Championships, but he didn’t have enough time due to the demands of preparing for the Olympics.