Neeraj Chopra Withdraws from Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland
The Paavo Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland, will be without the presence of Neeraj Chopra, the Indian javelin thrower and Olympic champion. Chopra, who sustained a muscle strain last month, has decided to pull out of the prestigious event scheduled for June 13, citing health concerns.
Chopra’s manager sent a note to the event planners alerting them that Chopra will no longer be competing in the gold-level World Athletics Continental Tour competition. A statement on the website of the Finnish Athletics Federation confirmed Chopra’s decision to skip the Paavo Nurmi Games owing to health issues. Also Read : French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic Aims for Tennis Immortality with 23rd Grand Slam Triumph
Jari Salonen, the CEO of PN Turku Oy, the organization responsible for organizing the Paavo Nurmi Games, expressed disappointment at the cancellation. Salonen stated that several top javelin throwers, who achieved distances of 90 meters in recent years, are currently dealing with injuries. He mentioned that Chopra, whose second-best performance of all time occurred in Turku last summer, was eagerly anticipating the competition as much as they were.
On May 29, Chopra released a statement on Twitter, announcing his decision to withdraw from the FBK Games in Hengelo, Netherlands, due to a muscle strain he sustained during training. He emphasized the need to prioritize his health and avoid any actions that could worsen the injury. Chopra acknowledged that injuries are an inevitable part of an athlete’s journey but expressed his determination to recover and return to the track in June.
The 25-year-old had a phenomenal start to the season by securing victory in the Doha Diamond League on May 5 with an impressive throw of 88.67m. While it remains uncertain when Chopra will resume competing, there is still ample time before the major events of the year, including the World Championships (August 19-27) in Budapest, Hungary, the Diamond League Finals, and the Asian Games.
Last month, the Indian sports ministry approved Chopra’s training proposal in Finland, stating that he would participate in multiple World Athletics gold level events in June. He will be based at the Kuortane Olympic Training Centre during this period.
By focusing on his recovery and prioritizing his health, Neeraj Chopra aims to bounce back stronger and continue his remarkable athletic journey. Fans and supporters eagerly await his return to the field, where he will undoubtedly showcase his exceptional javelin throwing skills once again.
