Why India's Golden Boy, Neeraj Chopra, is a social media darling too

Neeraj Chopra, India's golden boy, is currently basking in the zenith of his career, having clinched yet another gold medal with an impressive throw of 88.88 meters at the Asian Games in Hangzhou.

News of Neeraj's triumph was not so much a surprise as it was a cause for celebration among the Indian audience. Neeraj had long been considered India's safest bet for a gold at the games, and the 25-year-old from Khandra, Haryana, effortlessly lived up to those expectations.

The rising popularity of the Golden Boy

Neeraj Chopra's performance trajectory has steadily ascended, and his recent achievements serve as a testament to his consistent excellence. However, the credit for Neeraj Chopra's surging popularity among Indians is not solely attributable to his phenomenal performances.

The javelin throw champion has reached such heights of popularity that he was honored with the role of "Friendship Ambassador" between Switzerland and India by Switzerland Tourism.

An unapologetically desi boy

• Neeraj's personality, characterised by his unfiltered 'desi' approach, is something that resonates with every Indian fan. This has been a pivotal factor contributing to Neeraj's popularity transcending any specific demographic.

• While other athletes often grapple with the pressure of conforming to a formal, English-speaking persona, Neeraj has consistently celebrated his Indian cultural values.

• He unhesitatingly favors his Haryanvi-tinged Hindi language when handed a microphone, and his down-to-earth demeanor has become a hallmark of his growing popularity in the country.

Sportsmanship 

• When it comes to sportsmanship, the golden boy earns top marks.

• There have been numerous instances when Neeraj Chopra exemplified the true essence of sportsmanship, earning widespread acclaim from across the globe.

• Neeraj's sportsmanship extends beyond athletes from his own country and even encompasses his arch-rival, Arshad Nadeem, a javelin thrower from Pakistan.

At the Asian Games

• The recent Asian Games provided a shining example of Neeraj's composure and leadership.
• Despite a technical glitch causing his first throw to go unrecorded, Neeraj remained composed during his event.

• Neeraj also rushed to support another Indian contender, Kishore Kumar Jena, competing in the same event. When one of Jeena's throws was mistakenly called a foul, Neeraj was the first to challenge the decision, which was later overturned.

Display of determination

Neeraj has garnered praise for his unwavering determination and rigorous training regimen, which have been instrumental in his success.

Neeraj Chopra stands as one of India's most accomplished athletes, and his recent victory at the Asian Games only adds to his growing popularity.