NEW DELHI: Neeraj Chopra, a 26-year-old Indian who has won two Olympic javelin medals, announced on Saturday that he had hired Czech great Jan Zelezny as his coach.
Chopra, who won a silver medal in the 2021 Summer Olympics in Paris after winning a gold medal in Tokyo, had been trained by German coach Klaus Bartonietz, who announced his retirement last week.
“I spent a lot of time watching videos of Jan growing up because I admired his technique and accuracy,” Chopra said in a statement released by the Sports Authority of India.
Because of our comparable throwing styles and his unparalleled knowledge, I think working with him will be really beneficial. He was the best in the sport for a long time.
“Having Jan by my side as I strive to advance in my career is an honor, and I am eager to get started.”
Zelezny won silver in 1998 and gold in the Olympics in 1992, 1996, and 2000. With a 1996 mark of 98.48 meters, the 58-year-old also owns the men’s javelin record.
In the announcement, Zelezny stated, “I like his story and I see big potential, as he is young and able to improve.” “We will begin in person in a traditional winter camp in South Africa as we get to know one another better.
“I have faith in his development, particularly in the technical area, so he can maintain his high rankings at the major championships.”
