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India’s Neeraj Chopra has kept the country’s hopes for a gold medal alive at the Paris Olympics 2024. Chopra qualified for the javelin throw finals with an exceptional throw of 89.34 meters in the qualifier round. He will take center stage once more as he competes for the gold medal on August 8. His impressive performance in the qualifiers not only secured his place in the finals but also demonstrated his peak form ahead of the decisive event.
Challenges and competition for Neeraj Chopra
Chopra will face stiff competition in the finals, with eight other throwers qualifying directly by hitting over the 84-meter mark. This high level of competition adds to the challenge, but Chopra’s previous performances and his quest to become the first Indian to win two individual gold medals in the Olympics provide added motivation.
Rishabh Pant’s generous offer to fans
In a show of support for Chopra, star Indian batter Rishabh Pant took to X (formerly known as Twitter) with a unique offer for his followers. Pant announced that if Chopra wins the gold medal at the Paris Olympics, he will award INR 1,000,89 to a lucky winner who likes and comments the most on his tweet. Additionally, Pant promised flight tickets for the rest of the top 10 users who engage with the tweet, though the destinations remain unspecified. Pant described this gesture as a way to rally support for Chopra and create excitement around the event.
“If Neeraj Chopra win a gold medal tomorrow. I will pay 100089 Rupees to lucky winner who likes the tweet and comment most. And for the rest top 10 people trying to get the attention will get flight tickets . Let’s get support from India and outside the world for my brother,” Rishabh wrote.
If Neeraj chopra win a gold medal tomorrow. I will pay 100089 Rupees to lucky winner who likes the tweet and comment most . And for the rest top 10 people trying to get the atttention will get flight tickets . Let’s get support from india and outside the world for my brother
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) August 7, 2024
Also READ: Sachin Tendulkar hails Novak Djokovic’s gold medal win; shares key to success over Carlos Alcaraz at the Paris Olympics
India’s Olympic 2024 performance so far
India have already achieved notable success at the Paris Olympics with three bronze medals. Manu Bhaker secured the first bronze in the 10-meter air pistol, and she, along with Sarabjot Singh, earned a bronze in the mixed team event. Additionally, Swapnil Kusale clinched bronze in the 50-meter rifle. Chopra’s potential gold would add to this impressive tally and mark a historic achievement for Indian athletics.
Pant’s support for athletes
Following his offer, Pant posted another tweet emphasizing the importance of supporting athletes regardless of the outcome. He praised their hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm, urging everyone to appreciate and celebrate the spirit of Indian sports. Pant’s message underscores the broader support and recognition needed for athletes who represent the country on the global stage.
“I completely agree! Supporting our athletes is crucial, regardless of the outcome. Their dedication, hard work, and the spirit they bring to the games is something we should all appreciate and celebrate. Let’s show the world the incredible spirit of Indian sports indeed!,”
I completely agree! Supporting our athletes is crucial, regardless of the outcome. Their dedication, hard work, and the spirit they bring to the games is something we should all appreciate and celebrate. Let's show the world the incredible spirit of Indian sports indeed! 🇮🇳🏅
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) August 7, 2024
Pant’s status in the ODI series against Sri Lanka
While Pant has not played in the ongoing ODI series against Sri Lanka, his potential recall to the playing XI for the upcoming match could be on the cards. India have encountered challenges in the series, having drawn the first ODI despite being in a commanding position and losing the 2nd ODI by 32 runs. As a result, Sri Lanka holds a 1-0 lead in the series. Pant’s return could provide a significant boost to the Indian side as they aim to level the series in the final ODI scheduled for Wednesday, August 7.
