Tokyo Olympics: Germany's Johannes Vetter takes U-turn after underestimating Neeraj Chopra

His own shock exit from Tokyo Olympics 2020 notwithstanding, German javelin thrower Johannes Vetter has said he was happy for his good friend Neeraj Chopra, who clinched a history-making gold in men's javelin throw final on Saturday.

Notably, Chopra h to overcome a tough opponent in form of a very accomplished javelin thrower Johannes Vetter from Germany, and he achieved feat in style. Vetter showcased a dismal performance to finish ninth. 

Tokyo Olympics: Johannes Vetter lauds Neeraj Chopra

"He (Neeraj) is a really talented guy, always really friendly. I am happy for him," said Vetter, who has a personal best of 97.76m, after his stunning exit from event.

"He (Neeraj) has anor blocking technique as he showed in qualification. He did a great job," Vetter ded.

Tokyo Olympics: Neeraj Chopra proves Johannes Vetter wrong

Earlier this year, Johannes Vetter h said Chopra will find it difficult to beat him at Tokyo Olympics despite his ability to throw far. Interestingly, German athlete couldn't even finish inside top 3 in men's javelin throw final. Vetter failed to qualify for top 8 after initial three attempts, where he registered 82.52m as his best throw. 

"He (Chopra) threw good throws twice this year. Above 86m in Finland (86.79m at Kuortane Games). If he is healthy and if he is in right shape, especially in his technique, he can throw far. But he has to fight with me. I am looking to throw over 90m in Tokyo, so it will be tough for him to beat me," Vetter h said during a media interaction organised by World Athletics.

Vetter currently holds second-best throw of all-time, 97.76m in Chorzow.  

28-year-old German h come into Olympics as a hot favourite for gold, having thrown 90m plus on seven occasions between April and June but he was shockingly eliminated on day when it mattered most.

(with PTI inputs)