Neeraj, like he was gracious in victory in Tokyo, where he encouraged Arshad, he was equally gracious in defeat as well. He said it was Arshad’s day. He shook hands with him and the two posed for photographs together.

Chopra, 26, who scripted history by winning the javelin throw gold at the Tokyo Olympics, is once again the country's best bet for a top podium finish in the Paris Games beginning on July 26. Though the season has been far from perfect in terms of fitness, his German coach Klaus Bartonietz says things are fine.

The 24-year-old, who clinched a silver medal at the 2023 Asian Championships, was poised to qualify for the Olympics through the world ranking quota.