Neeraj Chopra seeks Sachin Tendulkar's calmness, names Brett Lee as potential javelin thrower

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra recently opened up about the cricketers he admires and how cricket continues to inspire his sporting mindset, with Sachin Tendulkar being a key influence.

“I really admire how Sachin Tendulkar carried himself under pressure. He remained calm even in the tensest moments. That composure is something I try to bring into my own sport, especially on competition days,” said Chopra.

Asked about cricketers who could throw the javelin, Chopra mentioned legendary Australian speedster Brett Lee. “I’ve heard that Brett Lee had a javelin background. With his speed and athleticism, he could’ve been quite effective in the sport during his prime,” he shared.

Chopra also expressed a strong interest in training with Indian pace ace Jasprit Bumrah. “I’d love to try javelin with Bumrah. Though bowling and javelin are both forms of throwing, they demand different techniques. I’m sure I could learn a thing or two from him,” he said with a smile.

‘Don’t Believe In Superstitions’

As for his own pre-event rituals, Chopra avoids superstitions. “I don’t believe in any lucky charms. I prefer to stay relaxed, eat well, rest properly, and just focus on giving my best,” he said.

The 2025 season has been a successful one so far for the world champion. After a 90.23m throw in Doha (2nd place), he went on to win in Paris with 88.16m, followed by another victory in Ostrava with a throw of 85.29m on June 24.

With Tendulkar’s mental strength as inspiration and his own steady performance graph, Chopra continues to aim higher as the season progresses.