Author : Aashiya Jain | EQmint | SPORTS News

 

Indian athletics star Neeraj Chopra has decided to end his coaching association with Jan Zelezny, bringing to a close a partnership that lasted just one season but left a lasting impact. The announcement, made in January 2026, marked the end of a phase that saw Chopra achieve one of the most significant milestones of his career breaching the 90-metre mark in javelin throw for the first time.

 

The decision, reported by The Times of India, was framed not as a fallout but as a natural progression in Chopra’s journey as an elite athlete one shaped by learning, experimentation and self-reflection.

 

A Short Partnership, A Historic Moment

Chopra began working with Zelezny in November 2024, teaming up with one of the greatest javelin throwers the sport has ever seen. Zelezny, a multiple Olympic champion and world record holder, brought immense experience and technical insight to the collaboration.

During the 2025 season, Chopra reached a landmark moment when he threw 90.23 metres at the Doha Diamond League, becoming the first Indian to cross the 90-metre barrier. The throw placed Chopra in an elite global club and was widely seen as proof that his technique and strength were evolving to a new level under Zelezny’s guidance.

 

However, while Doha stood out as a peak, the rest of the season proved inconsistent. Chopra struggled to replicate that distance regularly and finished eighth at the World Championships in Tokyo, a result that stood out because it ended a long run of podium finishes at major events. Despite flashes of brilliance, the season did not fully align with the expectations that followed his historic throw.

 

Parting With Gratitude, Not Conflict

Importantly, Chopra made it clear that the decision to part ways was not driven by disagreement. In his statement, he expressed deep appreciation for Zelezny, describing the experience as both educational and personally meaningful.

 

He said that working with Zelezny helped him see the sport differently and exposed him to new technical ideas and training philosophies. Beyond coaching, Chopra highlighted the bond they shared, calling Zelezny not just a mentor but someone he had admired for years. Building a friendship with an idol, he noted, was something he valued greatly.

 

Zelezny echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging Chopra’s achievement of crossing 90 metres and stating that the season had its challenges. He pointed out that Chopra had dealt with an injury before the World Championships, which affected his preparation and performance. Both sides spoke respectfully of each other, underlining that the separation was mutual and amicable.

 

A Pattern of Thoughtful Transitions

This is not the first time Chopra has changed coaches as part of his long-term planning. Earlier, he had worked extensively with Dr. Klaus Bartonietz, under whom he won the Tokyo Olympics gold medal and later claimed a World Championship title. That partnership, too, ended on professional terms, once Chopra felt he had absorbed what he could from the collaboration.

 

With Zelezny, the learning curve was different focused on refining technique at the highest level and pushing the boundaries of distance. Even though the partnership lasted only a season, the results and insights gained appear to have added another layer to Chopra’s evolution as an athlete.

 

Looking Ahead to a Packed Future

Following the split, Chopra has already begun preparations for the upcoming season. According to reports, he resumed training in November 2025 and is focused on staying fit and consistent. The road ahead is demanding, with major events lined up, including the Commonwealth Games in 2026, the Asian Games, and the World Championships in 2027.

 

Beyond that lies the long-term target of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where Chopra will look to add to his already impressive legacy. With years of international competition behind him, he now carries a blend of experience, technical understanding and self-awareness that few athletes possess.

 

A Career Still in Motion

Neeraj Chopra’s decision to move on from Jan Zelezny reflects the reality of elite sport, where growth often means change. Coaching relationships evolve, objectives shift, and athletes must constantly reassess what they need to stay competitive at the top.

 

While the partnership may have been brief, its impact particularly the historic 90-metre throw will remain a defining moment in Chopra’s career. As he charts his next steps, fans can be certain of one thing: Chopra continues to approach his career with clarity, humility and an unwavering desire to improve.

 

His journey, much like his throws, is still in motion and far from over.

 

For more such a information : EQmint

Resource Link : TOI