Paris Olympics 2024: “Neeraj will do everything in his power to go out there and perform for himself and for his country,” says Dame Valerie Adams

Dame Valerie Adams, a four-time World Champion shot putter from New Zealand, threw her weight behind Indian Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra to defend his Olympic gold medal.

Valerie Adams, who won two Olympic gold medals in Beijing and in the London Olympics, said the Indian athlete is seasoned and he knows how to get the best out of himself.

“There’s undoubtedly immense pressure on Neeraj; the weight on his shoulders must be substantial. The noise can be overwhelming at times. However, Neeraj is seasoned; he knows precisely what needs to be done, and he will do everything in his power to go out there and perform for himself and for his country,” Valerie Adams said, on the sidelines of the TCS World 10K in Bengaluru.

The 39-year-old New Zealander, who has won three gold medals at the Commonwealth Games, gave light on what makes an athlete successful in sport. “It takes a very long time. You will need to be very persistent and passionate about your sport. It’s not for the faint hearted and it can get very lonely. If you are up for it, then do come along, otherwise you are better off with a social team sport,” she opined.

Valerie Adams retired from shotput in 2022 and has been hooked to running since then. The four-time World Champion said running has a positive impact on her mind and said it is an addictive routine. “Polynesians are not usually runners, but since I have retired, running makes me feel good about myself. Running is one of those things that you can do anywhere. It’s free. All you must do is put your shoes on and walk out the door and the impact that it has on you is so positive. That is what makes it addictive,” she added.

The 16th edition of the TCS World 10K will be run on Sunday, April 28, in Bengaluru.