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Olympic gold-medallist and world champion, Neeraj Chopra has reportedly opted out of the upcoming Paris Diamond League. As reported by ESPN, Neeraj Chopra’s decision to skip the upcoming Diamond League event comes with concerns on his ongoing adductor niggle. Although, in an interview with ESPN, Neeraj said that he is focusing on the training and strengthening his blocking leg.
“I need to strengthen my blocking leg when I throw because that’s when my groin gets pulled. We’re working on that to see how we can reduce the impact on the groin and control the pressure on it,” he said while adding that he has been and will consult different doctors after the Games.
“I could have competed in more events for sure and that was the plan. But I have realised that my health is paramount, that comes first. Even if I feel the slightest discomfort or like I am pushing myself too much in training, I’ve learnt to pause for a bit,” he added.
Neeraj Chopra, who last featured at the last month’s Paavo Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland, clinched his maiden gold at the Games with a throw of 85.97m. While the 26-year-old returned to competitive action after a month-long precautionary break, topped the eight-man challenge, comprising the likes of two-time champion Anderson Peters, young prodigy Max Dehning and home favourite Oliver Helander.
Speaking after the Paavo Nurmi Games, Neeraj said that he has become wiser and no longer puts himself to risk of participation in all competitions. “Back then, if I had an entry in a competition, I would definitely go and compete no matter what happened. But now with more experience, I am better placed to make correct decisions,” he said.
“I was happy with my performance in Turku, but I felt there was more work to do. I was slow on the runway compared to my normal speed. I want that speed back and for that, I need proper confidence that I am fully fit and that my groin is fit. I want to feel confident when I run on the runway,” he added.
