Neeraj’s reach can boost Indian athletics scenario

Four years ago, Neeraj Chopra raised India’s flag at the Tokyo Olympics with no fans in the stands to cheer him on. The Covid-induced protocols meant the venue was empty. Only a handful of Indian athletes, support staff and media witnessed the greatest moment in Indian athletics up close.

- Avishek Roy

Yet, on that heady Tokyo night Chopra took a victory lap around the National Stadium, humbly acknowledging their presence and soaking in the feeling. It was a moment of triumph, but the image of a tricolour-draped Chopra celebrating in an empty stadium left one wishing that he should get another opportunity to perform in front of fans in the Olympics. That moment came at the Paris Olympics where Chopra won silver. In four years, Chopra has won the World Championship, Diamond League and numerous elite level competitions.

However, in these four years, Chopra had appeared in only one event at home where his presence went almost unnoticed because of his late confirmation.