Neeraj Chopra Shares Humorous Take on Athlete Gifts After Arshad Nadeem Receives Buffalo

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/18th August 2024

Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra has offered a humorous perspective on the unique gifts athletes receive, in response to recent news about Pakistan’s Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem being gifted a buffalo by his father-in-law. Nadeem received this unconventional present in celebration of his impressive 92.97-meter javelin throw at the Paris Olympics, a gesture that has drawn attention and amusement.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Chopra recounted a light-hearted anecdote about the traditional gifts he has received. “I was once gifted desi ghee,” Chopra shared during a media interaction organized by JSW Sports. He elaborated on how such gifts are a common practice in his native Haryana, where receiving items like desi ghee or ladoos is part of local sports culture. “In Haryana, it’s not unusual to get gifts like 10 or even 50 kg of desi ghee,” he explained, highlighting that these offerings are often accompanied by promises of success. For instance, he noted that people might say, “‘If Neeraj wins this competition, I’ll give him 50 kg of ghee.'” This tradition reflects the belief that ghee, which is rich in nutrients, is thought to enhance strength, an essential quality for athletes in sports like wrestling and kabaddi.

Chopra also drew parallels between traditional gifts in his region and the gifts received by athletes elsewhere, noting that in Haryana, athletes might be given items such as Bullet motorbikes, tractors, or even buffaloes. This regional custom underscores the importance placed on supporting athletes and celebrating their achievements with practical and symbolic gifts.

In the same discussion, Chopra addressed his recent performance at the Olympics, acknowledging that despite being mentally prepared, his physical condition, especially his legwork, was a limiting factor. “My legwork on the runway wasn’t optimal, and no matter how hard you push, technique is crucial. If it’s not right, it hampers performance,” he admitted. However, he reassured that he has managed his injury well and that it has not worsened.

Chopra’s reflections on the tradition of athlete gifts and his own performance provide an interesting insight into the cultural practices surrounding sports and the personal experiences of elite athletes. His comments came after Arshad Nadeem’s story gained attention, highlighting the diverse and sometimes quirky ways in which athletes’ achievements are celebrated around the world.