Having recently parted ways with javelin throw legend Jan Zelezny, Neeraj Chopra is reportedly set to reunite with his first coach, Jay Chaudhary. Chaudhary was the coach who introduced the sport to him and trains athletes in Panipat.
According to reports, Chaudhary will join Neeraj’s team as a consultant. His job will be to provide coaching and technical assistance. Zelezny’s stint as Neeraj’s coach began towards the end of 2024 when Dr Klaus Bartonietz stepped from his role due to old age.
After parting ways with Zelezny, Neeraj said, “Working with Jan opened my eyes to so many new ideas.”
“The way he thinks about technique, rhythm, and movement is incredible, and I learned a lot from every single session we had together.
“What I’m most proud about is the friendship I’ve built with someone who has been my idol all my life. Jan is not only the best javelin thrower of all time, but also one of the best human beings I have ever met,” he added.
Meanwhile, Zelezny said, “Working with an athlete like Neeraj was a great experience. I’m glad we met and were able to work together, that I got him to break the 90-metre barrier for the first time.”
“Our relationship is very positive also on the human side and we will continue to stay in touch, we will definitely meet at some training camp or, for example, on vacation with our families in Europe or India,” he added.
The partnership saw Neeraj get past the 90-metre mark for the first time in his career at the 2025 Doha Diamond League, which was also their first competition together as coach and athlete. The partnership also saw Neeraj earn titles at the Paris Diamond League, the Ostrava Golden Spike, and the inaugural NC Classic.
