Tokyo Olympics: Didn't know it would be gold, feels unbelievable: Neeraj Chopra

Bengaluru, Aug 7: With the entire nation glued to their television sets and the national anthem being played at the Tokyo Olympics, it was an emotional moment, not just for gold-medallist Neeraj Chopra, but for the 1.3 billion Indians cheering on the athlete.

Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra creates history, wins first-ever athletics gold for India in Olympics

Chopra, who put up a stupendous performance in the men's javelin throw final said, "It feels unbelievable!"

Despite topping the qualifications three days ago, the star Indian javelin thrower claimed to be unsure of a top podium finish. Chopra, who topped qualification, produced a better show in the finals with a best throw of 87.58M.

Chopra's gold medal came 13 years after Abhinav Bindra clinched India's first individual medal at the Olympics. The 23-year-old Chopra became only the second Indian to win individual gold in the Olympics and also the first track-and-field medal for the country.

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"It feels unbelievable. It is the first time India has won a gold in athletics, so I feel very good. We have just one gold here in other sports," the 23-year-old was quoted as saying by PTI after winning the historic gold.

"This is our first Olympic medal for a very long time, and in athletics it is the first time we have gold, so it's a proud moment for me and my country."

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With German great Johannes Vetter in the fray, Chopra said he didn't expect to win gold. "In the qualification round I threw very well so I knew I could do better in the final. (But) I didn't know it would be gold but I am very happy," said the gold-medallist.

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With star javeline thrower Chopra bringing down the curtains on India's Tokyo Olympics campaign with a gold medal, the country registered its best-ever show at the Olympics. India returned home with seven medals, including one gold, two silver medals and four bronze medals.