New Delhi: Double-Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra is reportedly set to part ways with coach Dr. Klaus Bartonietz after working together for more than five years. The German biomechanics expert joined forces with Neeraj in 2018, assisting him to gain complete fitness following an elbow surgery after the Asian Games.
The partnership has seen Neeraj win major titles at the world level in the men’s javelin throw event in athletics. The star Indian athlete won gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and followed it with a gold medal in the World Athletics Championships 2023 in Budapest last year. He has also claimed silver medals in both the prestigious events in 2022 (World Championships) and 2024 (Olympics) besides defending his Asian Games gold medal in Hangzhou last year.
All of the major achievements of Neeraj has come under the guidance of Bartonietz, but the 26-year-old has decided to look forward with a new coach.
According to a report by Circle of Sport, Neeraj dropped hints about finding a new coach during his interaction with students, coaches, and staff of the Sports University of Haryana in Rai.
“My coach was a biomechanics expert… He would tell me in detail which angle to throw the javelin at and what were the shortcomings in the technique…),” he responded to a question on the need to incorporate sports science in sport,” Neeraj was quoted as saying by Circle of Sport.
“We see many times that we are following the same plan and doing the same work out. It appears to me that I must bring in some change. There was a German Shot Putter who said ‘Don’t expect different results if you are doing the same work.’ I now believe I have to change my workout and my mindset. I think it can make a difference,” he added.
It was observed by veteran sports journalist G Rajaraman that Neeraj referred Bartonietz in the ‘past tense’ form.
AFI confirms Neeraj Chopra’s decision to look for new coach
Athletics Federation of India (AFI) Dr. Adille Sumariwalla confirmed the development, saying that it was the suggestion from Bartonietz himself. The AFI is also on the lookout for a new coach for the Indian ace.
“He told us that he had done the best he could for Neeraj. And it was time for Neeraj to work with a coach who could elevate his game further,” Sumariwalla said.
Neeraj ended the 2024 season with a second-place finish at the Diamond League Finals in Brussels earlier this month.
Neeraj Chopra is reportedly set to part ways with coach Dr. Klaus Bartonietz after working together for more than five years. The German biomechanics expert joined forces with Neeraj in 2018, assisting him to gain complete fitness following an elbow surgery after the Asian Games. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
