Doha: India’s javelin throw maestro Neeraj Chopra, alongside Asian Games silver medallist Kishore Kumar Jena, is set to launch their 2024 outdoor season at the prestigious Wanda Diamond League meet in Doha, Qatar, this Friday.
The event, slated to unfold at the Qatar Sports Club, will witness champions from across the globe competing in 14 Diamond disciplines. Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic gold medallist and reigning World and Asian Games men’s javelin throw champion, is anticipated to headline the competition and commence his season with a stellar performance.
Chopra will share the stage with fellow countryman Kishore Jena in the men’s javelin competition, alongside renowned athletes such as former World Champion Anderson Peters from Grenada and Tokyo 2020 silver medallist Jakub Vadlejch from the Czech Republic. Although Chopra clinched the 2022 Diamond League series title, he secured the runner-up position to Vadlejch last season, setting the stage for an exhilarating showdown in Doha.
Eager to surpass the 90m mark this season, Chopra expressed his aspirations during a pre-event press conference. Reflecting on his journey and ambitions, Chopra emphasized the challenges he has overcome and his determination to achieve new milestones. He highlighted the significance of the Doha Diamond League in his pursuit of excellence, aiming for a breakthrough performance amidst fierce competition.
The event will also witness the participation of other esteemed athletes, including reigning Olympic gold medallists Steven Gardiner from the Bahamas and Soufiane El Bakkali from Morocco, who will compete in the men’s 400m and men’s 3000m steeplechase, respectively.