Neeraj Chopra calls Diamond League win very important for India

Neeraj Chopra on Friday became the first Indian to win a Diamond League event on Friday with a throw of 89.08m. Speaking about his achievement, he described it as a very important victory for the country.

He said that it was a special night and it felt really good to win and most importantly made a comeback with a very good throw. The 24-year-old has marked a comeback from an injury that kept him away from the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

"Abhinav Bindra sir, IOC President Thomas Bach sir and the crowd were cheering for me, I enjoyed and felt really good to perform in such a great atmosphere," he added.

Emphasising the importance of the win, he said: "I feel we shouldn't be only focusing on the events that happen after four or two years. Competitions like the Diamond League Meet or Continental Tour are really good opportunities for athletes."

About the international stage. Neeraj said these events that happen every year give an opportunity to do well. " It really helps prepare well for the major tournaments because world-class athletes participate here. Performing well in these tournaments will also help Indian Athletics and the sport."

The star athlete thinks there has been a rise of Indians in athletics. He said he will be very happy to see more Indian athletes taking part in these competitions, reported NDTV.

"I will be delighted to participate along with my fellow Indian athletes at a stage like this. Avinash Sable and Sreeshankar also participated in the Diamond League this year, so gradually our country is reaching this level and if we will perform better here, then it will help Indian athletics do well at bigger stages," said the javelin thrower.