**Neeraj Chopra** is an Indian track and field athlete who specializes in the javelin throw. He gained international fame after winning the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the first Indian to win an Olympic gold in athletics. Neeraj is regarded as one of India's greatest athletes and has become a national hero for his achievements.
### **About Neeraj Chopra**
- **Born**: December 24, 1997
- **Hometown**: Khandra, Panipat, Haryana, India
- **Discipline**: Javelin Throw
- **Coached By**: Klaus Bartonietz (current), previously by Uwe Hohn
### **Career Highlights**
- **Tokyo 2020 Olympics**: Neeraj Chopra won the gold medal in javelin throw with a throw of 87.58 meters, marking India’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics.
- **World Athletics Championships 2023**: Neeraj made history again by becoming the first Indian to win a gold medal at the World Athletics Championships, solidifying his status as one of the world's top javelin throwers.
- **Asian Games**: Neeraj won the gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta with a then-national record throw of 88.06 meters.
- **Commonwealth Games**: He secured a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia, with a throw of 86.47 meters.
### **Significance and Impact**
- **Trailblazer in Indian Athletics**: Neeraj's achievements have brought unprecedented attention to track and field sports in India, a country traditionally dominated by cricket. His success has inspired a new generation of athletes to pursue careers in athletics.
- **National Icon**: Neeraj Chopra has become a symbol of national pride in India, celebrated for his humility, discipline, and dedication to his sport. He is often referred to as "India's Golden Boy."
- **Role Model**: Neeraj is a role model for young athletes across India, particularly in rural areas, showing that with talent and hard work, it’s possible to achieve global success.
### **Awards and Recognition**
- **Khel Ratna Award**: In 2021, Neeraj Chopra was honored with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India's highest sporting honor.
- **Arjuna Award**: He received the Arjuna Award in 2018 in recognition of his outstanding achievements in athletics.
- **Padma Shri**: In 2022, Neeraj was awarded the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, for his contributions to sports.
### **Personal Life**
- **Early Life and Training**: Neeraj grew up in a farming family in the village of Khandra in Haryana. He was introduced to javelin throw at the age of 11 to combat childhood obesity. His talent was quickly recognized, leading him to pursue the sport more seriously.
- **Military Service**: Neeraj is a Subedar in the Indian Army, having joined the Rajputana Rifles in 2016, which provided him with the stability and resources to focus on his training.
### **Challenges and Achievements**
- **Consistency and Growth**: Neeraj has consistently improved his performance over the years, setting new national records and winning medals at major international competitions. His journey has been marked by his dedication to refining his technique and maintaining his physical fitness.
- **Injury Recovery**: In 2019, Neeraj underwent surgery for an elbow injury, which could have been a career-ending setback. However, his determined recovery and return to competition were nothing short of remarkable, culminating in his historic Olympic gold.
### **Legacy**
Neeraj Chopra's legacy extends beyond his achievements in javelin throw. He has redefined Indian athletics by setting a new standard of excellence and inspiring millions of young athletes across the country. His historic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics is a moment of immense pride for India and has secured his place as one of the nation's greatest sporting icons.
### **Future Prospects**
- Neeraj Chopra continues to be one of the top contenders in global athletics, and his journey is closely followed by fans and aspiring athletes alike. With his continued focus and training, Neeraj is expected to break more records and win further accolades in the years to come.
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