The Paris 2024 Olympics is just a few months away, and a billion Indians would once again be hoping that Neeraj Chopra defends his Tokyo 2020 title. But by any means, that won’t be easy to pull off due to stiff competition. The former world record holder in 110m hurdles, Colin Jackson thinks that Neeraj will have to ‘stay calm’ to be able to get gold again.
The Indian has shown tremendous consistency in the last two years, winning medals at almost every competition, mostly golds. In 2023, he defended his Asian Games title and also became the first Indian to win the World Championships gold.
“He (Neeraj) is really focused and committed. He has a clear perspective and pure quality which excites me a lot about him,” Jackson said. “To be able to defend your title at the Olympics will be a great achievement for him. I think he needs to stay calm and do what he has been doing to date.
He went on to say that Indian athletes must not get intimidated by the Olympics. “India has performed well at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and also at the Olympics recently.
“I would advise the youngsters that this sport is for you, don’t shy away from it, grab it and go for the win. It is about staying focused and giving your best on a particular day,” Jackson said.
“The most important thing for the Indian athletes is not to get intimidated by the environment at the Olympics. For me participating in a World Championship would be the same as the Olympics, that’s what gave me longevity.”
“It is important to take it as any other event, not to think it is the Olympics and put more burden on oneself.”
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