Double Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra is set to begin training under his new coach, Jan Železný, a three-time Olympic and World Champion and the current world record holder in javelin.
Photo: IANS
Double Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra is set to begin training under his new coach, Jan Železný, a three-time Olympic and World Champion and the current world record holder in javelin. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’ Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) will fund Železný’s salary.
Železný, a legend in javelin with three Olympic gold medals (1992, 1996, 2000) and a record-breaking throw of 98.48m in 1996, holds five of the top ten throws in history. He has previously coached top athletes like Jakub Vadlejch, Vítězslav Veselý, and three-time World Champion Barbora Špotáková.
Calling Železný his idol, Chopra expressed excitement for this new phase: “Growing up, I admired Jan’s technique and precision, watching countless videos of him. His unmatched knowledge and a similar throwing style will be invaluable as I push toward new heights in my career.” The Ministry noted that Chopra’s technical skills and overall performance are expected to reach new levels under Železný’s guidance.
Advertisement
Železný praised Chopra as a “great talent with immense potential.” He added: “If I were to coach someone from outside Czechia, Neeraj would be my first choice. I admire his story and see vast potential in him. Our training will kick off with a winter camp in South Africa, and I believe his technical progress will lead to continued success in major championships.”
Advertisement
