Neeraj Chopra seeks fresh coaching approach to take his game to next level

New Delhi: Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra is actively seeking a new coaching direction as he aims to elevate his performance in preparation for the 2024 athletics season.

The javelin superstar, who has trained under biomechanics expert Klaus Bartonietz since 2019, believes a fresh approach is crucial for taking his game to the next level.

Bartonietz, who replaced renowned javelin legend Uwe Hohn as Neeraj’s coach, had a full-time contract that was set to continue until the Paris 2024 Olympics. However, at 75 years old, he has suggested that Neeraj explore options for a new coach. Citing age and family commitments, the experienced coach feels it’s time for Neeraj to work with someone who can help him push his boundaries.

“He (Bartonietz) told us that he had done the best he could and it was time for Neeraj to work with a (new) coach who could elevate his game further,” Athletics Federation of India (AFI) president Adille Sumariwalla stated, according to Circle of Sport.

Under Bartonietz’s guidance, Neeraj has achieved significant milestones, including winning gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, a Diamond League title in 2022, and gold medals at the World Championships and Asian Games in 2023. However, Neeraj's 2024 season has been characterized by a series of second-place finishes at high-profile events, such as the Doha Diamond League, the Paris Olympics, the Lausanne Diamond League, and the Brussels Diamond League Final.

During this period, Neeraj faced stiff competition, with opponents frequently surpassing the 90m mark—a distance he has yet to reach in his career. At the Paris Summer Games, Neeraj was edged out by Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, who set an Olympic record with a throw of 92.97m. Similarly, he finished second to Grenada's Anderson Peters, who logged a throw of 90.61m at the Lausanne Diamond League.

Neeraj’s personal best remains 89.94m, achieved at the Stockholm Diamond League two years ago. Although he has recorded multiple throws in the 89m range this year, these efforts have not translated into victories at major competitions.

“I see many times that we are following the same plan and doing the same workout. It appears to me that I must bring in some change,” Neeraj remarked. He reflected on a piece of advice from a German shot putter: “Don’t expect different results if you are doing the same work.” The Indian athlete is convinced that adjusting his training regimen and mindset could lead to meaningful improvements.

As Neeraj embarks on this new chapter in his career, the athletics community eagerly anticipates his next steps and the potential for even greater achievements in the upcoming season.