Neeraj Chopra, India's golden boy in athletics, secured a silver medal in the men's javelin throw at the Paris Olympics on Thursday night, marking India's first silver at the Games.
His performance, though shy of the gold, was celebrated nationwide, with leaders and citizens alike hailing his achievement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to extend his congratulations, calling Chopra "excellence personified."
Taking to social media platform X, Modi wrote, "Time and again, Neeraj has shown his brilliance. India is elated that he comes back with yet another Olympic success. Congratulations to him on winning the silver."
The Prime Minister also spotlighted Chopra's role as a beacon of inspiration for future generations, saying, "He will continue to motivate countless upcoming athletes to pursue their dreams and make our nation proud."
President Droupadi Murmu also praised Chopra's historic feat, noting that he has now become the first Indian athlete to win both a gold and a silver medal in two successive Olympic Games.
"Heartiest congratulations to Neeraj Chopra on winning silver in the Paris Olympics and scripting history. His feat will inspire generations to come. India looks forward to Neeraj bringing home more medals and glory in the future," she stated.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah echoed the sentiment, describing Chopra as "phenomenal" and a source of national pride.
"The phenomenal Neeraj Chopra brings glory to the nation. Well done champ. Congratulations on winning the silver at the Paris Olympics 2024. You have enhanced the honour of the Tiranga by scripting a glorious episode in the history of Indian sports," Shah wrote on X, reflecting the collective joy of the nation.
Kiren Rijiju, the Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and a known sports enthusiast highlighted the magnitude of Chopra's achievement, sharing the specifics of his silver-winning throw: "The silver medal-winning throw from our champion Neeraj Chopra at 89.45 m," Rijiju posted, underscoring the exceptional skill that continues to place Chopra at the forefront of global athletics.
Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, also lauded Chopra's dedication and skill, noting how his relentless pursuit of excellence has once again brought glory to the nation.
"Congratulations to Neeraj Chopra for clinching the silver medal in Men's Javelin Throw at the Paris Olympics 2024! Your relentless dedication and exceptional skill have once again brought glory to India. May your achievement inspire future generations and continue to shine brightly on the global stage. Here's to many more successes ahead," Gadkari wrote.
Chopra's journey to silver
Chopra's journey in the final saw him deliver a best throw of 89.45 metres. While he showcased his prowess with a strong second attempt, the event was marred by four foul throws, which ultimately cost him the gold.
Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem clinched the top spot with a record-breaking throw of 92.97 metres, securing his country's first individual gold at the Olympics. Despite Chopra's commendable effort, Nadeem's record-setting throw in the second round proved insurmountable.
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