Neeraj Chopra focuses on gold medal and adaptability over 90m target at Glasgow 2026

Neeraj Chopra (File Pic)

Star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has revealed he does not focus on surpassing the 90-metre threshold in every event, emphasising that clinching titles and maintaining steady form under challenging conditions carry far more importance than distance targets.

The reigning world champion, who surpassed the 90m mark with a 90.23m personal best in Doha last year, noted that victory remains his chief aim.

"No, I don't feel that pressure, nor do I obsess over a specific distance. As an athlete, my goal is always to improve my distance," Chopra said in response to a PTI query. "I always feel in major Games, the main challenge is winning gold among the best athletes in the world. The second thing is distance. So I feel I need to keep increasing my distance."

Acknowledging the impact of weather on performances, he added, "But when the conditions are tough, we are not able to get the distance. In that case, we have to be consistent. So I feel I should maintain my consistency and see how I can also increase my distance."

Neeraj Chopra happy to be back competing at Commonwealth Games

Returning to the Commonwealth Games after missing the 2022 edition due to injury, the 2018 champion recognised the high level of competition in Glasgow.

"The field is quite tough. Olympic and World Championship, Commonwealth Games and Asian Games medallists are here. All of them perform in the Diamond League."

Addressing potential weather disruptions, Chopra highlighted the mental battle: "I was doing some training throws yesterday. The conditions are tough, but they are the same for everyone. No matter how bad the conditions are, we have to stay mentally strong. I always think about how to produce the absolute best throw in the worst conditions."

Reflecting on his physical condition and return, he shared, "It is good now. I played my first competition in Doha after recovering, and it went well. I worked on my weaknesses and fitness, and I feel much better now. I have very good memories of the Commonwealth Games. It was my first senior competition at the Commonwealth Games, and I essentially started my senior career there when I won gold. The nature of the competition has changed a lot in the last eight years."

Chopra will take the field for the qualification round on July 30.

(With inputs from PTI)