Neeraj Chopra Postpones Surgery, Eyes 90m Mark and New Coach

Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra, fresh off his historic silver medal at the Paris Olympics, has decided to postpone surgery on his persistent groin injury. The 26-year-old, who has been consulting medical experts, confirmed his decision on Saturday.

Chopra's 2024 season was marked by a series of second-place finishes, including at the Olympics, where he was overshadowed by Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem's 92.97m Olympic record throw. Despite a fracture on his non-throwing left wrist, Chopra achieved 87.86m at the Brussels Diamond League Finals.

"I am not sure about the time (it will take) when I fully recover after my (groin) surgery, so I will participate in the next event without having surgery and will decide about it later," Chopra said. "Right now, I am focusing on my rehab seriously."

Chopra's decision to postpone surgery is a significant development, as it could potentially impact his preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, the Indian star remains confident in his ability to break his personal best of 89.94m and reach the elusive 90m mark.

"I want to touch the 90m mark soon, but I am not sure when. I am very close to that mark...I hope to cross the mark soon," Chopra said.

Another major reset for Chopra will be finding a new coach. German biomechanics expert Klaus Bartonietz, with whom Chopra had formed a successful partnership since 2019, has decided to step away. Chopra is currently in discussions with a few coaches but is taking his time to find the right fit.

"I am looking for a new coach, but I am not in a hurry. I need a coach who can help me raise my game with a new approach," Chopra said. "I am in discussion with a few, but right now I am weighing my options."

Despite the challenges, Chopra remains optimistic about the future of Indian athletics. He believes that the sport is on the rise in India and that there is no shortage of support for young athletes.

"Athletics is on the rise in India, even the standard in the domestic circuit has gone up," Chopra said. "We need to nurture the next generation of athletes so that we can have many more Chopras at the Olympics when it happens in India."

Tags: #NeerajChopra, #Javelin, #Olympics, #Surgery, #90mMark