Olympic and world champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra is set to make a highly anticipated return to competition in his home country after a three-year hiatus. He has officially confirmed his participation in the National Federation Cup, scheduled to take place in Bhubaneswar from May 12 to 15.
The 26-year-old superstar will make the journey from Doha to India after kicking off his season at the prestigious Diamond League series on May 10.
“As per entries @Neeraj_chopra1 and Kishore Kumar Jena will compete in domestic competition starting May 12 in Bhubaneshwar,” the Athletics Federation of India tweeted.
Chopra’s coach, Klaus Bartonietz, also confirmed to PTI that his talented athlete will be participating in the Bhubaneswar event.
According to the schedule released on Wednesday, the men’s javelin qualifying round is scheduled for May 14, with the final set to take place on May 15.
Joining Chopra in the competition is 28-year-old Kishore Jena, who claimed a silver at the Hangzhou Asian Games while Chopra secured the gold. Jena will also be competing in the Doha Diamond League on May 10.
Chopra’s last domestic competition appearance was at the same event on March 17, 2021, where he clinched the gold with an impressive throw of 87.80m.
Since then, Chopra has achieved remarkable feats including winning a historic gold at the Tokyo Olympics, becoming the Diamond League champion in 2022, securing the title of world champion in 2023, and successfully defending his Asian Games gold in China.
He has also excelled in Diamond League events, winning three legs and earning a silver medal at the 2022 World Championships. Despite his numerous achievements, Chopra has yet to breach the 90m mark, with his personal best and national record standing at 89.94m.
