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Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra is in the final stages of his pre-season training in Antalya, Turkey, with his sights set on repeating his triumph at the season-opening Doha Diamond League on May 10. Chopra emerged victorious in the Qatari capital in 2023 with a throw of 88.67m, but this year, his focus extends beyond the Diamond League to the ultimate goal of retaining his Olympic crown.

“Defending my Olympic gold is my primary objective this season, but there’s still time for that,” Chopra stated. “Before then, I’ll participate in 3-4 events, aiming to perform well in each. That will prepare me mentally and physically for Paris.”

Since his last competitive appearance at the Hangzhou Asian Games, where he secured the gold medal, Chopra has undergone a six-month off-season. He trained in Potchefstroom, South Africa, before relocating to Gloria Sports Arena in Turkey, where he has primarily focused on enhancing his strength.

Chopra’s two-member team, comprising biomechanics expert Klaus Bartonietz and physiotherapist Ishaan Marwah, has expanded with the addition of strength and conditioning expert Spencer Mackay. Mackay previously worked with Chopra during his rehabilitation following elbow surgery in 2019. Recognizing the need to elevate his performance in the Olympic year, Chopra has once again sought Mackay’s expertise.

“I’ve been working on my strength and conditioning for the past 2-3 months,” Chopra explained. “My technique has improved significantly in clean and jerk and snatches. I’ve also commenced javelin-specific workouts. I’m eager to start the season.”

While the Olympics remain the ultimate prize, Chopra is not underestimating the importance of his tune-up events. He attributes this shift in mindset to his success in Tokyo.

“Before Tokyo, I was content with simply competing,” Chopra said. “I would finish fourth or fifth and be satisfied. But after Tokyo, I have this burning desire to excel everywhere. I want to finish on the podium as often as possible.”

Chopra’s consistency since his Tokyo triumph is a testament to his unwavering dedication to training. “I was never satisfied after Tokyo, but consistent results demand consistent training,” he said. “I relish pushing myself in training, and now is the time to break out of the 87-89m bracket and achieve consistent throws at a higher level.”

The reigning world champion also acknowledged the exceptional talent of his compatriot Kishore Jena, who he believes has the potential to surpass the 90m mark before him. He also praised Germany’s 19-year-old sensation Max Dehning, the latest entrant in the 90m club.