Neeraj Chopra Reveals Paris Olympics Struggle: "It Was All in the Technique"

India's golden boy of javelin, Neeraj Chopra, has finally broken his silence on his performance at the Paris Olympics. In a candid interview, Chopra revealed the factors that led to his silver medal finish behind Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, offering fans a glimpse into the high-stakes world of elite javelin throwing.

The Fine Margins of Javelin 

Chopra emphasized how mere centimeters can make a world of difference in javelin. He recalled the Commonwealth Games where his throw of 89.94 meters was bested by Nadeem's 90.18 meters. "This time too, Nadeem's throw was excellent, but I was confident I could match it," Chopra stated. 

The Olympic champion explained that in Paris, he couldn't push himself to the limit. "Mentally, I was fully prepared, but physically, I was holding back," he admitted. Chopra pointed out that his legwork on the runway wasn't up to his usual standards, which proved crucial in the final outcome.

Technical Challenges and Physical Limitations

Chopra's revelation shed light on the technical aspects of javelin throwing that often go unnoticed by spectators. "In trying to maintain my line, I couldn't apply full force," he explained. His second throw came close to Nadeem's, but as time progressed, physical limitations began to take their toll. 

The Indian athlete emphasized the importance of proper technique: "No matter how much mental effort you put in, success won't come unless your legwork and technique are right." This insight offers a valuable lesson for aspiring athletes about the holistic nature of sports performance. 

The Mental Game

Despite the challenges, Chopra's mental fortitude remained unshaken. "Not for a moment did I think I couldn't make a good throw," he asserted. This unwavering self-belief, even in the face of adversity, is a testament to Chopra's champion mindset.= However, he acknowledged that ultimately, it was the combination of technical and physical challenges that affected his performance, leading to him falling short of Nadeem's throw.

Looking Ahead

Chopra's honest reflection on his Paris Olympics performance offers valuable insights into the mind of a champion. It also sets the stage for his future competitions, as fans and fellow athletes alike will be watching to see how he addresses these challenges in upcoming events. 

The javelin star's openness about his struggles serves as an inspiration, showing that even Olympic champions face setbacks. It's a reminder that in the world of elite sports, the difference between gold and silver can come down to the smallest technical details.  As Chopra prepares for his next competitions, the sporting world will be eager to see how he applies these lessons learned in Paris. One thing is certain: Neeraj Chopra's journey in the javelin throw is far from over, and his best throws may still be ahead of him.