Neeraj Chopra’s family revealed that he was carrying an injury during the Paris Olympics, which affected his performance and resulted in a silver medal instead of gold.
The Golden Boy of India
Known as India’s ‘Golden Boy,’ Neeraj Chopra had to settle for a silver medal at the Paris Olympics. On Thursday, at the renowned Stade de France, Neeraj improved his season-best performance in the men’s javelin throw final, earning India’s first silver medal of the 2024 Summer Games. Following this historic achievement, Neeraj’s mother, Saroj Devi, shared that despite the injury, Neeraj managed to secure the medal.
The Tokyo Olympic gold medalist and reigning world champion had easily secured his place in the qualification round of the Paris Olympics. Neeraj’s first throw (89.34 meters) in the qualification round ensured his spot in the final and placed him at the top. Two days later, as the defending champion, he entered the final. However, due to the injury, Neeraj could only manage one successful throw (89.45 meters).
“Silver is Equally Valuable as Gold”: Neeraj’s Mother’s Heartfelt Message
Neeraj’s only successful throw in the Paris final earned India its fourth medal of these Olympics. Despite surpassing his own qualification throw, Neeraj was outperformed by Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem in the final. Expressing her joy and pride, Neeraj’s mother mentioned that she would prepare his favorite meal upon his return. “We are very happy. For me, silver is also gold. The one who won gold is like our son too. Neeraj was injured, so we are pleased with his performance. I will cook for Niraj” she said.
“Neeraj Gave His Best Performance”
Neeraj’s grandfather, Dharm Singh Chopra, stated that his grandson put in his utmost effort to win a medal for India in Paris. After Neeraj secured the silver medal, the Chopra family distributed sweets. “He gave his excellent game and won our heart and silver, and for india adding first silver medal” said Neeraj’s dada ji with pride.
“Today Was Arshad Nadeem’s Day, But Silver Is No Less”
Neeraj’s father, Satish Kumar, explained that his son was carrying an injury, which might have contributed to his second-place finish. “Everyone has their day. Today was Pakistan’s day. But we won silver, and it is a matter of pride for us. I believe his groin injury affected his performance. Still, he won silver for the country. We are happy and proud. Neeraj will inspire all the youth,” said Neeraj’s father.
Neeraj Joins Exclusive Club with PV Sindhu
Neeraj’s single successful attempt in the Paris final was the second-best throw of his career. Even though he won silver, Neeraj has set a new benchmark in Indian sports. He is the first Indian in athletics to win individual medals in back-to-back Olympics. Neeraj has now joined former wrestler Sushil Kumar (2008 and 2012) and badminton star PV Sindhu (2016 and 2021) in the exclusive club of Indians with consecutive Olympic medals.
