New Delhi: Indian Olympic and world champion Neeraj Chopra met tennis legend Roger Federer at Zurich recently in what was a dream-come-true moment for the javelin thrower.
“It’s a dream come true for me to meet Roger Federer here in Zurich. I have always admired his skill, his spirit of true sportsmanship and his ability to inspire millions around the world. Today, however, what inspired me the most was his humility and his easy-going charm that made me feel so comfortable in his presence. We had a wonderful time exchanging notes about our respective passions and life’s experiences on and off the field,” Neeraj said after the meeting at Zurich’s La Réserve Eden au Lac.
The admiration was mutual, with Federer also gushing about Neeraj.
“I am amazed by how much Neeraj has achieved personally and for his country through his grit and determination. It’s been great to meet him here in Zurich,” the 20-time Grand Slam winner said.
While Federer presented Neeraj with an autographed tennis racquet, Neeraj handed the former World No 1 a signed India jersey from the Asian Games.
“It was very nice meeting you. Thank you for the advice, I will follow,” wrote Neeraj on the jersey he presented to the Swiss legend.
Neeraj and Federer are both Switzerland Tourism ambassadors.
Neeraj — who became India’s second individual Olympic gold medallist at the pandemic-affected Tokyo Olympics in 2021 — is hoping to repeat the feat when the Paris Olympics come along later this year.
Since winning the Tokyo Games, Neeraj has scripted more history by claiming a silver and an unprecedented gold medal at the World Athletics Championships.
He also retained his Jakarta Asian Games gold medal at Hangzhou last year.
Agencies

KR Desk