CWG 2026: Yashvir Singh attributes bronze-winning throw to Neeraj Chopra's advice

Yashvir Singh and Neeraj Chopra (Pic: IANS)

Indian javelin thrower Yashvir Singh revealed that a tip from Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra inspired the best performance of his career, taking him from seventh position to a bronze medal at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

Heading into the final attempt, Yashvir sat in seventh place with a mark of 81.33m, while South Africa's Douw Smit held the bronze position with an effort of 82.88m. However, Yashvir produced a sensational final throw to secure a podium finish.

"I had to overcome the adverse conditions. Neeraj motivated me before my final throw and supported me. He told me to keep the javelin in one line, and it paid off," Yashvir told PTI on Monday after receiving a warm reception upon arriving at Delhi's IGI Airport.

"This was one of the biggest tournaments of my life, so my only aim was to give my 100 per cent effort and leave nothing behind. I wanted to produce my personal best there. I am happy that I achieved a personal best of 85.41 metres and also won the bronze medal with that performance," he said.

Maintaining proper alignment with the shoulder during a throw is a vital technical element in javelin, as it optimises power delivery while minimising strain on the arm. Explaining how he executed Neeraj Chopra's tip, Yashvir noted that it involved holding the spear close to his ear, keeping his shoulders directed toward the target, pulling his arm back in a clean vector, and releasing over the shoulder along that same path.

Yashvir took an under-the-radar approach on the big stage

Yashvir noted that competing away from the spotlight allowed him to perform freely, as media and fan attention remained primarily on top contenders such as Neeraj, Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem, Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage, and South Africa's Anderson Peters.

"I had no pressure as the focus was on Neeraj, Nadeem and Rumesh. I just had to give my 100 per cent effort. I kept telling myself to achieve my personal best. God was kind, and it happened," he signed off.

Neeraj Chopra won a silver medal, while Yashvir won a bronze, completing a historic double podium for India.

(With inputs from PTI)