‘Since It’s The Olympics…’: Kishore Jena on Neeraj Chopra vs Arshad Nadeem Javelin Throw

India javelin thrower Kishore Jena has opened up about the famous rivalry between reigning Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem.

The trio will feature in the qualifying round of the men’s javelin throw at the ongoing Paris Games on Tuesday.

Also Read: Record-breaker Armand Duplantis Retains Pole Vault Gold

Considering the recent records of Chopra and Nadeem, expectations are high from them of at least a podium finish.

Jena, who secured the silver medal at the last Asian Games in Hangzhou finishing behind Chopra, will also be aiming to make an impression.

Ahead of his Summer Olympics debut in Paris, Jena shared his thoughts on the relationship between Nadeem and Chopra.

As per the 28-year-old, Nadeem and Chopra share a good bond outside of the field despite being the top two contenders for the javelin throw gold.

“No, it’s not like that. Since it’s the Olympics, a lot of countries have come. We don’t think like that. There is nothing like that. It is friendly when we meet them. I also meet them. There is no such intention,” Jena told news agency ANI.

The rivalry between Chopra and Nadeem became prominent when the duo shared the podium at the World Athletics Championships in August last year. While the Indian star clinched the gold medal, Nadeem won silver.

They were slated to meet at the Asian Games as well. Nadeem, however, later pulled out of the competition due to injury concerns.

Jena was all praises for countrymate Chopra ahead of the latter’s title defence in the French capital.

The Odisha-born athlete further revealed how Chopra helped him grow as a teammate. “You know how much Indian athletics has grown because of Neeraj bhai. Everyone has high hopes for him. It feels good that he is with us. He is staying with us. We wish him well,” Jena said.

The rising javelin star is hopeful about his campaign in Paris.

About his preparation for the mega event, Jena said, “Preparation is very good, and we are getting a lot of support from here. It will be good. I will give my best tomorrow. I will play like a finalist. It is my first time, so l will give 100 per cent.”

Athletes set to feature in the men’s javelin throw qualifiers have been divided into two groups.

Chopra and Nadeem have been pooled in Group B and will take the field at 3:20 PM IST on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Kishore Jena, included in Group A, will be seen in action at 1:50 PM IST.

Catch Paris Olympics 2024 Day 11 LIVE Updates Here. Stay updated with the latest from Olympics 2024. Explore India At Paris Olympics 2024 Today. Check the updated list of Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally. Check Paris Olympics 2024 Event Results.