Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Olympic Gold-medallist Neeraj Chopra after the javelin thrower’s momentous achievement, applauding him for not letting injuries and break in momentum to come in the way of his performance.
“Many many congratulations to you, you have brought joy to the country on the last day of competitions for us,” Modi said in a telephonic conversation with the youngster.
An excited Chopra responded by saying, “I wanted to do well, Gold jeetna bohot badi baat hai (it’s a huge thing to win Gold). I got support and good wishes from a lot of people.”
“You had to work harder for one year because of the delay in Olympics and the Covid-19 lockdown. You also battled a shoulder injury (in 2019). You have done wonders despite all these obstacles, it is all hard work,” Modi said.
Chopra acknowledged that the task wasn’t easy for him. “Bohot mushkil tha sir (It was difficult),” he said.
Modi spoke about Chopra’s confident body language, which was eye-catching during the Olympic finals but something that the PM said he noticed before he left for the Games.
“I saw confidence on your face the day I spoke to you,” he said.
“I only wanted to give my 100 per cent,” responded the champion.
Modi told Chopra that he has inspired a generation of youngsters with his achievements.
“You have inspired the young generation. We have shown good performance in sports where we are not normally good. Sports is essential for the country. It’s a moment of honour for your family.
“I will see you on August 15. Many congratulations,” PM Modi said.