As the inaugural NC Classic approaches on July 5, all eyes are set on Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra, who continues to shine globally after reclaiming the World No. 1 spot in the javelin rankings. Ahead of the event, the 27-year-old star athlete opened up in a candid interview with Robin Uthappa on Star Sports, revealing his admiration for legendary cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Brett Lee.
🗣️ “I would want Sachin Tendulkar’s superpower”
When asked which cricketer’s superpower he would love to borrow for a flawless javelin throw, Neeraj didn’t hesitate:
“Sachin Tendulkar. He represented our country so well for so many years and made so many records for us. The way he faced challenges from many great bowlers and still performed exceptionally — I would want that superpower and try to do the same,” Neeraj said.
He added that Tendulkar’s calm mindset in the face of pressure is something he admires and strives to emulate in his own performances:
“It would help me handle challenges that come my way with a calm mindset. I do try, but I wish I improved more.”
🏏 Brett Lee and Jasprit Bumrah — Potential Javelin Partners?
Neeraj also surprised fans by talking about former Australian pacer Brett Lee’s hidden javelin skills:
“I have heard that Brett Lee was a javelin thrower. I think he could throw the javelin well, especially when he was in his peak years,” Neeraj revealed.
He didn’t stop there — Chopra also expressed his desire to train with Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah:
“I would like to try javelin with Jasprit Bumrah too, and hope he teaches me some bowling skills. While bowling and javelin are both throws, they are very different. I would like to learn from Bumrah.”
🏅 Chopra’s Stellar 2024 Season So Far
Neeraj’s current form is nothing short of elite. He:
- Won the Paris Diamond League with an 88.16m opening throw
- Matched that performance with another 88.16m throw at the Ostrava Golden Spike, marking his third win of the season
- Breached the elusive 90m mark once this year, reaffirming his consistency ahead of Paris 2024
Neeraj’s humility, combined with his champion mindset, continues to inspire a generation — not just in athletics, but across Indian sports.