New Delhi: Indian javelin thrower Yashvir Singh has credited Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra for giving him crucial last-minute advice that helped him secure a bronze medal at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
Yashvir revealed that he was in seventh place after the penultimate round with a best throw of 81.33 metres, while South Africa's Douw Smit occupied third position with 82.88 metres. Ahead of his final attempt, Neeraj Chopra encouraged him to stay focused and offered a simple technical suggestion.
According to Yashvir, Neeraj told him to "keep the javelin in one line," referring to maintaining proper alignment of the javelin with the shoulder throughout the throw. The advice proved decisive, as Yashvir produced the throw of his career, registering a personal best of 85.41 metres to climb from seventh place and claim the bronze medal.
Speaking after receiving a warm welcome at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, Yashvir said, "I had to overcome the adverse conditions. Neeraj motivated me before my final throw and supported me. He told me to keep the javelin in one line, and it paid off."
Explaining the technique, Yashvir said it involves holding the javelin near ear level, keeping the shoulders aligned with the direction of the throw, drawing the throwing arm and javelin back in a straight line, and releasing it over the shoulder while maintaining that alignment. The technique helps maximise distance while reducing strain on the throwing arm.
Yashvir also said he competed without pressure, as most of the attention was on Neeraj Chopra, Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem, Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage, and South Africa's Anderson Peters.
"My only aim was to give my 100 per cent effort and achieve my personal best. I am happy that I achieved a personal best of 85.41 metres and also won the bronze medal," Yashvir said.
His performance earned India its second javelin medal at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and highlighted the mentorship and encouragement shared among Indian athletes on the international stage.
