I try to start with my best throw: Neeraj Chopra

Paris, August 6

Defending champion Neeraj Chopra declared that he is ready for the high-quality javelin throw finals after making quite a statement by qualifying top of the charts with a season’s best performance in his very first attempt here today. Chopra covered 89.34m which was the second best performance of his career behind the 89.94m achieved in 2022.

“I try to be good in the first attempt but it doesn’t always happen,” Chopra said, making it clear that he was in as much hurry to wind up the media interaction as well. “The faster we do it (interaction), the better for my rest,” he said.

Chopra, also the reigning world champion, topped the qualification round — combined of Group A and B — with his monster throw. Two-time world champion Anderson Peters (88.63m) of Grenada was second in Group B as well as overall standings.

Today’s performance also put to rest concerns around his adductor niggle. Chopra said he is in good shape heading into the finals. “I am better now. I will focus on the final. I am trying to keep it in mind and warm up properly. I am feeling better now. I will try to do my best in the final.”

But Chopra acknowledged that the medal round will be an altogether different challenge. “In the final, everyone has a different mindset. We should focus on the fact that we have started well,” he said.

“I am very confident and motivated to perform well. I am trying to save my best for the final. That’s the real thing. I am feeling very good, we will try to come with better preparation.” — PTI