India’s gold medal winner, Neeraj Chopra, is all set to compete in the javelin throw event at the Paris Olympics. He will be joined by his compatriot Kishore Jena in the men’s javelin throw. This season, Neeraj faces tough competition for the coveted medal. Despite a stellar performance, he has yet to surpass the 90m mark, with his best throw of 88.36m. Let’s have a look at Neeraj’s top competitors at the Paris Olympics.
Julian Weber, Germany
Germany’s Julian Weber is a significant contender for Neeraj Chopra at the Paris Games. The world number 3 finished fourth at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. With a personal best of 89.54m and a seasonal best of 88.37m, Weber is in excellent form and only slightly ahead of Chopra’s season best.
Jakub Vadlejch, Czechia
Jakub Vadlejch from Czechia is a challenging menace to Chopra. He was the closest competitor to Neeraj in Tokyo, securing the silver medal. Ranked number one in the world heading into Paris, Vadlejch boasts a personal best throw of 90.88m and a seasonal best of 88.65m.
Max Dehning, Germany
Max Dehning is emerging as a strong new contender. Although currently ranked 22nd in the world, he achieved a season and personal best of 90.20m at the German Winter Throwing Championships. Dehning has already crossed the 90m mark and is a serious medal prospect.
Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan
Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, who has surpassed the 90m mark, poses a significant challenge to Neeraj Chopra. Nadeem’s personal best is 90.18m, with a current season best of 84.21m.
Anderson Peters, Grenada
Anderson Peters, ranked 6th in the world, is a strong medal contender for the Paris Olympics. He has a personal best throw of 93.07m and a seasonal best of 86.62m.