Neeraj Chopra to part ways with Coach Klaus Bartonietz

By
Teja Devathoti
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35
Neeraj Chopra

Neeraj Chopra, India’s star javelin thrower and Paris silver medalist, is set to part ways with his long-time coach, Klaus Bartonietz. This decision marks the end of a highly successful five-year partnership that has seen Chopra achieve unprecedented success on the global stage.

Neeraj Chopra and Klaus Bartonietz: The Journey Together

Neeraj Chopra and Klaus Bartonietz began their collaboration in 2019. Bartonietz, a German biomechanics expert, initially joined Chopra’s team to provide technical insights. However, he soon took over as Chopra’s primary coach after Uwe Hohn’s departure. Under Bartonietz’s guidance, Chopra’s career soared to new heights.

Achievements Under Bartonietz

  1. Tokyo Olympics 2021: Chopra clinched the gold medal, becoming the first Indian to win an Olympic gold in athletics.
  2. World Championships: Chopra secured a gold medal, further establishing his dominance in the sport.
  3. Diamond League: Chopra emerged victorious, showcasing his consistency and skill on the international circuit.
  4. Asian Games: Chopra added another gold medal to his collection, proving his mettle in continental competitions.
  5. Paris 2024 Olympics: Chopra won a silver medal, adding to his illustrious career.

Reasons for Parting Ways

The decision to end their partnership comes primarily from Bartonietz’s side. At 75, Bartonietz has cited age and family commitments as the main reasons for stepping down. He expressed a desire to spend more time with his family and reduce his travel commitments, which have been extensive due to his coaching responsibilities.

For Chopra, this marks the end of a significant chapter in his career. The 26-year-old athlete has expressed immense gratitude towards Bartonietz for his contributions. Under Bartonietz’s mentorship, Chopra not only honed his technical skills but also developed a deeper understanding of the biomechanics involved in javelin throwing.

As Chopra looks ahead, the search for a new coach will be crucial. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) are expected to play a significant role in this transition. Chopra’s next coach will have big shoes to fill, given the remarkable success achieved under Bartonietz.

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