In a moment that highlights mutual respect among world-class athletes, Swedish pole vault sensation and world record holder Armand Duplantis has publicly praised Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra, calling him a “huge inspiration” and a “trailblazer” for Indian sport.
Speaking at a pre-event press conference ahead of the Diamond League season opener in Paris, Duplantis, fondly known as “Mondo,” was asked about global athletes who inspire him. Without hesitation, he named Chopra.
“What Neeraj has done for Indian athletics is incredible,” said Duplantis. “He’s more than just a champion—he’s a symbol of possibility for a whole generation. You can see how the country has rallied behind him. That kind of impact is rare, and honestly, it’s a huge inspiration.”
Neeraj Chopra, India’s golden boy and reigning Olympic javelin champion, has become a household name since his historic gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics—India’s first-ever Olympic medal in track and field. Since then, his performances on the world stage, including gold medals at the World Championships and Asian Games, have continued to elevate India’s presence in global athletics.
Duplantis, who holds the pole vault world record at 6.23 meters, is widely admired for his dominance and consistency. The 25-year-old’s recognition of Chopra is being seen by many as a defining moment in the camaraderie between top-tier athletes, especially from vastly different sporting backgrounds.
Following Duplantis’ statement, fans and sports personalities across India took to social media, celebrating the mutual admiration between the two champions. Hashtags like #ChopraInspires and #MondoMeetsIndia trended on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands of fans expressing pride in Chopra’s global influence.
Neeraj Chopra, currently training for the upcoming World Athletics Championships, responded with humility.
“Thank you, Mondo! That means a lot coming from a world-beater like you. Your performances push the boundaries of what’s humanly possible. Wishing you all the best for the season ahead,” he wrote on social media.
This mutual admiration reflects a growing spirit of global athletic unity and recognition beyond national borders. As both athletes continue to raise the bar in their respective fields, they also inspire millions—proving that sport can truly connect the world.
With the 2025 World Athletics Championships on the horizon, fans are hoping to see both icons shine—Duplantis in the sky, and Chopra on the field, throwing for gold and greatness.
