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Neeraj Chopra, India's Olympic and world champion javelin thrower, displayed his resilience and determination at the season-opening Doha Diamond League. Despite facing challenging conditions, Chopra overcame a slow start to secure a second-place finish with a best throw of 88.36m.Chopra's first two attempts were underwhelming, but he gradually improved his performance. In his third attempt, he launched the javelin 86.24m, moving into second place. However, Czech thrower Jakub Vadlejch had set a high bar with his 88.38m effort in the third round.Undeterred, Chopra continued to push himself. In his fifth attempt, he came close to Vadlejch's mark with a throw of 86.18m. With one final attempt remaining, Chopra summoned his reserves of strength and unleashed a mighty throw that landed just two centimeters short of Vadlejch's winning distance.Despite the narrow margin, Chopra was satisfied with his performance. He acknowledged the challenging conditions and expressed his gratitude for the support of his team. Chopra's second-place finish is a testament to his mental fortitude and his ability to perform under pressure.The Doha Diamond League marked Chopra's first competition of the 2024 season. He will now return to India for a brief visit before competing at the Federation Cup in Bhubaneswar next week. Chopra's next major international competition will be the Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland next month, where he is expected to face a stronger field.

Nisha Dahiya, a 24-year-old Indian wrestler, has secured a berth at the 2024 Paris Olympics in the 68kg weight category. Her victory at the World Olympic Qualifiers in Istanbul on Friday marks India's fifth Paris Olympics quota in women's wrestling, the highest number the country has ever achieved.Dahiya's journey to the Olympics was not without its challenges. In the quarterfinals, she faced top seed Adela Hanzlickova of the Czech Republic, a multiple-time European championships medalist. Despite a shaky start, Dahiya managed to overcome Hanzlickova 7-4, showcasing her resilience and determination.In the semifinals, Dahiya faced Alexandra Anghel of Romania. She dominated the match, building an 8-0 lead before Anghel narrowed the deficit to 8-4. However, Dahiya held on to her advantage, securing her spot in Paris.Dahiya's success adds to the growing list of Indian wrestlers who have qualified for the Olympics. Vinesh Phogat (50kg), Antim Panghal (53kg), Anshu Malik (57kg), and Reetika Hooda (76kg) have also earned quotas.On Saturday, India's freestyle wrestlers will have the opportunity to add to the country's Olympic contingent. The World Olympic Qualifiers are the final chance for wrestlers to secure their place in Paris.Dahiya's victory is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She is an Asian Championships medalist and a world U-23 bronze medalist. Her success is a source of inspiration for aspiring wrestlers in India and around the world.

Manika Batra's stunning victory over world No. 2 Wang Manyu at the Saudi Smash tournament has sent shockwaves through the table tennis world. The Indian paddler's triumph marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Indian table tennis, challenging the long-held dominance of Chinese players.Before Manika's breakthrough, Indian players often faced a psychological barrier when competing against Chinese opponents. However, Manika's fearless approach and unwavering determination have shattered this perception. Her victory over Wang, who is considered a potential Olympic medalist, is a testament to the growing strength and confidence of Indian table tennis players.Manika's success is not a mere fluke. She has dedicated herself to rigorous training and mental conditioning. Her German sparring partner, Kirill Barabanov, played a crucial role in her preparation, providing tactical advice and emotional support.Manika's journey to the top has not been without its challenges. She has faced legal battles with the federation and endured a string of disappointing results. However, these setbacks have only fueled her determination. She has learned to manage pressure effectively and has developed a strong support system, including her coach Aman Baglu.Manika's victory is not just a personal triumph but also a symbol of the progress made by Indian table tennis. It has inspired a new generation of players to believe in their abilities and challenge the established order. As Manika prepares for the upcoming Paris Olympics, she is confident that she can continue to make history and bring glory to India.

Olympic medalist wrestler Bajrang Punia has refuted allegations that he refused to provide urine samples during selection trials in Sonepat in March. He claims that he merely requested an explanation from the dope control officials after they failed to provide adequate proof of carrying proper equipment.Punia, who won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, stated that he had previously encountered issues with NADA officials. On two separate occasions, they had arrived with expired kits and only one testing kit instead of the mandatory three.On March 10, when approached by alleged doping control officials, Punia sought an explanation for these previous lapses. However, he received no response. He then informed the officials that he would provide a sample upon receiving an explanation.Instead of providing an explanation, the officials left the venue, claiming it to be a refusal from Punia's end. He emphasized that he remained at the venue for an hour after the incident and met with the SAI doctor for treatment of a knee injury.Punia also alleged that the DCOs did not follow protocol by leaving before he submitted his medical report to the competition manager. He believes that his actions were justified due to NADA's past actions and the need to ensure compliance with doping control protocols."It is my moral obligation towards the wrestling community and particularly the younger wrestlers, that I exercised here," Punia stated.

Indian chess is experiencing a surge of excitement and optimism. With a 17-year-old Grandmaster poised to challenge for the world championship and a new leadership team at the All India Chess Federation (AICF), the future looks bright.AICF President Nitin Narang has unveiled an ambitious ₹65 crore action plan, outlining measures to support players, enhance infrastructure, and promote the game at the grassroots level. The plan includes cash rewards for top players, contracts for age-group players, and the establishment of 20 online academies to provide coaching to promising young talents.Narang emphasizes the importance of sustainability and transparency in the federation's operations. He has secured funding commitments from several partners and plans to increase revenue through initiatives such as a national rating system and a unified registration process.The AICF is also exploring the possibility of hosting the Gukesh vs Ding Liren World Chess Championship in India later this year. Narang acknowledges the challenges involved but remains optimistic about securing the bid.To address the need for qualified coaches, the AICF will implement a "Train the Trainers" program. The federation also plans to incentivize chess content creators to promote the game and inspire aspiring players.Narang recognizes the importance of supporting women in chess and has introduced several initiatives, including increased representation in arbitration and expanded events under the "Smart Girl" program.The AICF's focus on grassroots development includes the establishment of district-level academies and a robust policy framework to ensure the proper training and support of young players.Narang emphasizes the need for an active and responsive federation that listens to stakeholders and addresses their concerns. He encourages feedback and ideas to enhance the action plan and build a sustainable and thriving chess ecosystem in India.

Indian Shooters Gear Up for Paris Olympic Trials in BhopalThe Indian shooting contingent is set to resume their quest for Olympic glory as the third and fourth Olympic Selection Trials (OST) commence in Bhopal on Saturday. With 16 Paris quota places secured in pistol and rifle events, the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) is conducting trials among the top five shooters in each event to determine the squad for the Games.In shooting, Olympic quotas are earned for the country, but individual shooters must prove their worth in selection trials to secure their berths in Paris. The top two shooters in each event, based on the average of their best three trial scores out of four, will represent India at the Olympics.The first two trials were held in New Delhi last month, and the MP State Shooting Academy in Bhopal will host the remaining trials over the next nine days. The opening day will feature the men's 25m rapid-fire pistol and women's 25m pistol T3 qualification rounds, with the finals scheduled for Sunday.A total of 16 matches across eight Olympic rifle and pistol individual events will be held, culminating in the men's and women's 10m air rifle T4 finals on May 19. Three women shooters, Olympian Manu Bhaker, Esha Singh, and Rhythm Sangwan, are vying for multiple events, including the 25m sport pistol and 10m air pistol.Among the favorites in the men's rapid-fire pistol event are Anish Bhanwala and Vijayveer Sidhu, who hold quota places and have performed well in the first two trials. In the 25m sport pistol, Manu and Esha have emerged as strong contenders after the initial trials.Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Ashi Chouksey will renew their rivalry for Olympic spots in the men's and women's 50m rifle 3 positions, respectively.The trials will be a crucial test for the Indian shooters as they aim to secure their places in the Paris Olympic squad. With the competition expected to be intense, the top performers will have the opportunity to represent their country on the world's biggest sporting stage.

Indian chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa, who recently made history as the youngest player to compete in the FIDE Candidates Tournament, has emphasized the crucial role of corporate sponsors in the sport. Despite the perception of chess as an inexpensive pursuit, Praggnanandhaa highlights the significant financial burden associated with training and competing at the highest levels.Praggnanandhaa, who recently entered into a long-term sponsorship agreement with the Adani Group, expressed his gratitude for their support. He explained that chess training involves extensive travel, equipment, and coaching, making it a costly endeavor. The Adani Group's sponsorship has alleviated the financial pressure on Praggnanandhaa and his family, allowing him to focus solely on his chess development.The 18-year-old Grandmaster is currently participating in the Rapid and Blitz tournament in Poland, which marks the start of a packed schedule for him. He is set to compete in the Grand Chess Tour, including the Superbet Romania classical tournament, the Saint Louis Rapid and Blitz, and the Sinquefield Cup. Praggnanandhaa is also excited to participate in the Norway Chess and the Real Masters in Switzerland.Praggnanandhaa acknowledges that his success is not solely due to his talent but also to the unwavering support of his family and sponsors. He emphasizes the importance of corporate sponsors like the Adani Group in fostering the growth of sports and providing financial assistance to athletes.To maintain his peak performance, Praggnanandhaa follows a rigorous physical and mental regimen. He engages in physical sports, such as badminton and beach volleyball, to keep his body and mind sharp. He also undergoes extensive chess training, including opening preparation and calculation exercises.Praggnanandhaa's journey serves as a testament to the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in chess. With the support of sponsors and a dedicated training regimen, he continues to push the boundaries of the sport and inspire young chess enthusiasts worldwide.

India's burgeoning reputation as a potential racquet sports hub is poised to receive a significant boost with the launch of the World Pickleball League (WPBL), the first-ever professional pickleball league. This groundbreaking initiative is the brainchild of Natekar Sports and Gaming (NSG), led by former Davis Cup tennis star and Arjuna Awardee Gaurav Natekar, in collaboration with Sony Entertainment Talent Ventures India (SETVI).Pickleball, a captivating racquet sport that seamlessly blends elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton, has garnered immense popularity worldwide. Recognizing its immense potential, Natekar, leveraging his three decades of experience in the sports industry, expressed his pride in unveiling the inaugural global professional pickleball league in India. He emphasized the sport's accessibility, stating, "Its easy-to-learn-and-play nature, coupled with its age and gender inclusivity, makes it the ideal sport for people to come out and play, thereby democratizing sports participation like never before."The inaugural edition of the league will feature six franchises vying for the coveted title. Each team will comprise five to eight players, including international stars. Notably, the league mandates teams to include Indian and junior players, providing them with an invaluable opportunity to interact and learn from the world's best.Arvind Prabhoo, President of the All India Pickleball Federation and International Pickleball Federation, hailed the professional pickleball league as a transformative initiative for the sport in India. He expressed confidence that this league would propel the growth of pickleball, bringing it closer to the target of engaging one million players nationwide within the next five years.Currently played in over 80 countries, pickleball has gained significant traction in the Asia Pacific region, with India emerging as a promising hub. Over the past few years, the sport has witnessed a steady rise in popularity, with over 30,000 amateur players and 8000 registered players across 18 states actively participating. Its compact space requirements and accessibility for individuals of all ages, from seven to 70, have contributed to its widespread appeal as both a recreational and competitive sport.

Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic and world javelin champion, will kick off his season at the Doha Diamond League 2024 on Friday at the Qatar Sports Club. Joining him will be fellow Indian Kishore Jena, who will also make his Diamond League debut.Both athletes have already secured their spots at the Paris Olympics. They last competed at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, where Jena won silver and Chopra took gold. Chopra is the only Indian athlete to have won a Diamond League title, which he achieved in Zurich in 2022. He lost the title last year to Czech Republic's Jakub Vadlejch, who is also competing this year and won silver at the Tokyo Olympics.Chopra is aiming to break the 90-meter barrier. "I've been training well and have had some good throwing sessions leading up to this event," he said. "I'm in form, but I don't know...there are three throwers over 90m. I'm still not there."Vadlejch has a personal best of 90.88m, while Anderson Peters has a personal best of 93.07m and Julius Yego boasts 92.72m. "I'm stuck between 88 and 90m. But I really want to break this barrier. Maybe tomorrow, it will be good," Chopra said.