Neeraj Chopra will be in action in the men's javelin throw final at the Olympics today. He topped the qualification round with a sensational throw of 86.65 meters on August 4. Although the showing was certainly impressive, the Indian will have to put in another big performance in the final to get on the podium.
Neeraj's main competitor, Johannes Vetter, is no ordinary opponent. The German has the ability to consistently throw over the 90m mark, which means that Neeraj may even have to better his personal best of 88.07m set earlier this year to win gold.
Check out: Johannes Vetter: All you need to know about Neeraj Chopra's main opponent for Olympic javelin gold
Neeraj has been in great form this year. He shortened his hair to adapt to the weather conditions in Tokyo. His improved technique has also been a great help as his throws have been a lot more consistent this year. However, it all boils down to the final, where all his hard work will be rewarded with a medal if he keeps his nerves in check and is able to perform to his highest level at the biggest sporting stage.
Also Read: With 7 of the world's best javelin throwers out, Neeraj Chopra could possibly win India's first-ever gold medal in athletics
Participants in men's javelin throw final
Twelve participants from the two qualification groups made it to the final. They are:
Andrian Mardare, Neeraj Chopra, Kim Amb, Mihaita Alexandru Novac, Vitezslav Vesely, Julian Weber, Lassi Etelatalo, Johannes Vetter, Arshad Nadeem, Pavel Mialeshka, Jakub Vadlejch and Aliaksei Katkavets.
Season's best of all the participants in the javelin throw final:
Olympics 2021: When is the javelin throw final?
The javelin throw final of the Olympics is scheduled for August 7. The event is set to start at 4:30 PM IST.
Olympics 2021: Where to watch the javelin throw final?
Sony Sports network holds the official broadcasting rights for the Olympics in India. The games are being telecast on Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 2, Sony Ten 3 and Sony Six. Live streams of the events are also available on the SonyLIV app. Doordarshan is also broadcasting all the events involving Indians at Olympics 2021.
Also Read: 5 best throws of Neeraj Chopra in 2021