Neeraj Chopra, India’s star javelin thrower, bid an emotional farewell to his German coach Klaus Bartonietz, who ended their five-year partnership due to family commitments. Bartonietz, 75, guided Chopra to a historic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics, a silver at the Paris Games, and several other medals.
Chopra expressed his gratitude in a heartfelt tribute, acknowledging Bartonietz’s profound impact on his growth as an athlete and a person. “You are more than just a mentor to me,” Chopra wrote. “Everything you taught has helped me grow both as an athlete and person.”
Bartonietz’s quiet yet impactful presence was highlighted by Chopra. “You were one of the quietest in the stands, but your words to me rang the loudest in my ears when I threw,” he said. “I will miss the pranks and the laughs we shared, but more than anything, I will miss US as a team.”
Indian athletics chief coach Radhakrishnan Nair confirmed that Bartonietz’s contract expired after the Paris Olympics and a new coach will be appointed before the end of the year. “The AFI and Neeraj will together look for a coach for him,” Nair said.
Bartonietz initially joined as a biomechanics expert but later became Chopra’s coach after Uwe Hohn’s departure. Under Bartonietz’s guidance, Chopra achieved remarkable success, including the Tokyo Olympics gold, Paris Games silver, world championship title, Diamond League championship, and Asian Games gold medal.
Chopra’s emotional farewell underscores the deep bond he shared with Bartonietz, who played a pivotal role in shaping his career. The search for a new coach will be crucial as Chopra aims to continue his dominance in javelin throwing.
