Neeraj Chopra’s historic javelin throw in Tokyo, where he clinched gold with a spectacular 87.58m, remains etched in Indian sporting lore.
As the reigning Olympic and World Champion heads into the Paris 2024 Olympics, he faces formidable rivals aiming to dethrone him.
Despite a less-than-ideal preparation with only three events this year, Chopra’s prowess remains unquestioned. Here’s a look at his top challengers for the upcoming Games:
Jakub Vadlejch, Czech Republic
With a season-best throw of 88.65m and a personal best of 90.88m, Vadlejch is a constant presence on the global javelin stage.
The Czech athlete, who secured silver in Tokyo and bronze at the World Championships, edged out Chopra in the 2024 Qatar Diamond League by a narrow margin.
His performance at the European Championships, where he clinched gold, underscores his status as a key contender in Paris.
Julian Weber, Germany
Weber, known for his powerful build, finished agonisingly fourth in Tokyo.
This season, he has posted a season-best throw of 88.37m and secured silver at the European Championships.
His determination to rectify his Tokyo disappointment makes him a strong contender for the Paris podium.
Max Dehning, Germany
Dehning’s 90.20m throw at the start of 2024 was the only 90m mark achieved this year.
Although his subsequent performances have been inconsistent, his potential to produce another 90m throw keeps him in contention.
His ability to deliver under pressure could prove crucial in Paris.
Keshorn Walcott: The former champion
Keshorn Walcott, the former world champion from Trinidad and Tobago, is making a comeback after a challenging period.
Walcott’s career includes several 90-meter throws, with a personal best of 90.81 meters.
His recent 88.62-meter throw in Qatar signals a return to form following a difficult 2023 season.
Walcott’s experience and track record make him a formidable opponent for Chopra.
Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan
Ranked 16th on the season’s top list, Nadeem’s unpredictable nature and ability to deliver high-impact throws at critical moments make him a wildcard.
His dramatic improvement from a sub-75m throw to an 84.21m mark during the Paris Diamond League highlights his potential to surprise in Paris.
As Neeraj Chopra prepares for the Paris Olympics, these athletes represent the toughest challenges to his quest for a second consecutive gold medal.
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