Neeraj parts ways with legendary coach Zelezny on mutual terms

Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra announced the end of his association with legendary Czech javelin thrower Jan Zelezny on mutual terms. The stint saw the Indian ace breach the 90-metre mark for the first time in his career, even though he was unable to defend his World Athletics Championships title during the period.

Both Chopra and Zelezny described their association as one built on trust, growth and meaningful collaboration, with the partnership leaving a lasting impact on the Indian star’s career.

Advertisement

Chopra, who created history by winning India’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics at the Tokyo Games before adding a silver medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024, made an immediate statement in his very first competition under Zelezny’s guidance.

The highlight of their time together came when Chopra crossed the 90m barrier, one of the most iconic milestones in javelin throwing, firmly placing him among the world’s elite and marking a landmark moment for Indian athletics.

Reflecting on the experience, Chopra spoke about how special it was to work closely with an athlete he had idolised since childhood. Training under Zelezny exposed him to new technical insights, exercises and ways of thinking that helped refine his overall approach to the event.

“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,” Chopra said in a statement on Saturday.

Zelezny, too, looked back fondly on their time together and the progress achieved during the partnership. “Working with an athlete like Neeraj was a great experience. I’m glad we met and were able to work together, and that I got him to break the 90-meter barrier for the first time. Apart from the World Championships, he finished at worst second, and that is not a bad record.”

“Unfortunately, the back injury 12 days before Tokyo (World Championships) significantly affected his chances. He has huge potential for the coming years. 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,” explained Zelezny in the joint statement issued by Chopra’s team.

Looking ahead, Chopra said he is ready to take greater responsibility in shaping his training and coaching direction. Having worked with some of the finest minds in the sport, he believes this is the right stage of his career to apply the lessons that have worked best for him.

With a deeper understanding of his body and technique, the Indian star is eager to experiment with new ideas in his preparation. “I’m looking forward to what 2026 has in store. I started my preparation in early November. As always, the goal is to stay healthy, and I am already excited to be competing again soon,” Neeraj said.

“At the same time, I’m especially looking ahead to the year with the World Championships in 2027, and the big goal beyond that is the Olympic Games in 2028,” he added.

As the chapter comes to a close, Chopra said he does so with immense gratitude and respect. “What I’m most proud of 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 said before signing off.