Tokyo 2020: Netizens overjoyed after Neeraj Chopra strikes gold in javelin throw

Tribune Web Desk
Chandigarh, August 7

Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra brought back India’s first gold in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and netizens have gone wild.

Chopra, the 2018 Commonwealth champion from Haryana’s Panipat and a Junior Commissioner Officer in the Indian Army, seized the lead after reaching the 87.03 mark with his first attempt, a distance no other competitor achieved during the final, winning India’s first gold of the Tokyo Games, as his overjoyed teammates and coaches watched from the stands.

Neeraj Chopra wins historic Gold medal for India in javelin throw at Tokyo Olympics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to react.

“History has been scripted at Tokyo! What @Neeraj_chopra1 has achieved today will be remembered forever. The young Neeraj has done exceptionally well. He played with remarkable passion and showed unparalleled grit. Congratulations to him for winning the Gold. #Tokyo2020,” he said. 

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said India was proud of him.

Retired ace shooter Abhinav Bindra, India’s only other individual Olympic gold medallist, said in a tweet: “And Gold it is for @Neeraj_chopra1.Take a bow, young man! You have fulfilled a nation’s dream. Thank you! Also, welcome to the club – a much needed addition! Extremely proud. I am so delighted for you.” 

Here are some reactions on Twitter: