Gold medallist Neeraj Chopra of the Tokyo Olympics has named legendary javelin thrower Jan Zelezny as his new coach in preparation for the 2025 campaign. The former Czech sportsman has won both Olympic and world titles. In addition, he holds the world record with a 98.48-meter throw.

Zelezny, widely regarded as the greatest javelin thrower of all time, holds the world record at 98.48 meters and has won three Olympic gold medals in his career. His expertise in biomechanics and training techniques is expected to help Chopra unlock his full potential and push the boundaries of his own performances.

“I am thrilled to have Jan Zelezny as my coach. Training with someone of his caliber is a dream come true,” said Chopra. “We share the same vision, and I am confident that his insights will help me achieve new heights in my career.”

Later this month, Zelezny will begin a 31-day training camp with Neeraj in South Africa. Instead of training with Zelezny for the full Olympic cycle, Neeraj will do so for the next two years.  "We are getting to know each other better and will begin in person at a typical winter camp in South Africa," Zelezny stated in the meanwhile. I think he will continue to place highly at the major championships because of his growth, particularly in the technical area."

Due to his old age, Neeraj's long-time coach, Dr. Klaus Bartonietz, recently announced his retirement. With the fourth, fifth, and sixth-best performances of all time, Zelezny is considered by many to be the best javelin thrower of the modern age of sports. Four times in all, the 58-year-old smashed the global record.

As Chopra’s coach, Zelezny’s primary goal will be to help the Indian athlete break his own personal best of 89.94 meters and, if possible, challenge the world record. In addition, they will focus on retaining the Olympic title and achieving consistency in major international events.

Chopra’s collaboration with Zelezny has sparked excitement among Indian sports fans, with the possibility of another historic achievement now within sight. With this new mentorship, Neeraj Chopra is not just aiming for the podium; he’s aiming for the history books.