In a remarkable recognition of his exceptional talent and hard work, Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has been named the world’s best male javelin thrower in 2024 by the esteemed US magazine ‘Track and Field News’.
This prestigious accolade is a testament to Chopra’s incredible consistency and skill in javelin throwing, which has earned him a spot among the sport’s elite athletes. The 26-year-old Indian athlete has been making waves in the international athletics scene with his impressive performances, and this recognition is a culmination of his efforts.
Chopra’s remarkable performance in 2024 included a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, where he achieved a throw of 89.45m. He also demonstrated impressive consistency throughout the year, finishing in the top two positions in every major competition he entered.
The Indian javelin thrower outperformed fierce competitors, including Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem and two-time world champion Anderson Peters, to secure this prestigious accolade.
This recognition is a proud moment for India and a testament to Chopra’s dedication and perseverance. We congratulate Neeraj Chopra on this outstanding achievement and wish him continued success in his athletic career.
Panaji, January 2025 – Margao-based Nihaal Borkar and Nishad Shevde made pickleball history in Goa, winning trebles in the state’s first pickleball state championship held recently at the BPS Club in Margao.
Nihaal won triple crowns by pairing up with Ruta Borker to defeat Ehrlick De Ataide and Natasha Viegas De Ataide in the 35+ mixed doubles category, which saw nine pairs in contention. Nihaal and Ruta lost the first set 10-12, before winning two sets on the trot, 11-7, 11-9, to win the title. Of the nine teams in the fray in the men’s 35+ doubles category, the summit clash was won by Akhil Lawande and Nihaal Borkar, who defeated Chinmay Kantak and Ehrlick De Ataide 11-6, 11-6. The 35+ men’s singles category saw 11 players in the fray, with Nihaal Borkar defeating Noel Noronha 11-6, 11-5 in two straight sets in the final.
Nishad Shevde, the other participant to win the treble, won the open men’s singles title, which saw the participation of 22 players. He defeated Cleon Barreto 11-9, 11-3 in the category’s final match. Nishad and Sweta Kantak also went on to win the finals of the open mixed doubles with a score of 11-5,10-12, 11-2. Twenty one teams participated in the men’s open doubles category, with the pairing of Nishad Shevde and Ehrlick De Ataide defeating their opponents 11-8, 11-3.
Goa’s tennis ace Simran Bundela won the ladies singles category based on cumulative points against her three opponents who had registered to participate in the segment. Simran won the title on the back of 33 points scored and losing six. The scores for the remaining participants were Tvisha Sardesai (26-13), Solania (14-26) and Sumangali (5-33).
The recently concluded three-day championship, the first such event in the state featuring the world’s fastest-growing paddle sport of pickleball, was organised at the BPS Club in association with the Goa Pickleball Association and All India Pickleball Association (AIPA). The debut edition of the championship, which featured 10 categories, witnessed a huge turnout with 123 players across genders and age groups registering to participate in the event. The winners of all 10 categories shared a winning purse of Rs.1 lakh approximately.
The men’s 50+ doubles category witnessed the participation of nine teams, culminating in a thrilling clash between Lincoln Furtado and Willy Jaques against Clarence Noronha and Noel Noronha, with Clarence and Noel winning the final match 11-3, 7-11, 11-8.
The men’s singles 50+ category saw seven players in the ring, with Noel Noronha defeating Willy Jacques 11-7, 11-6 in the final.
The open ladies doubles category saw four teams participate with Audrey Menezes and Melanie Chowgule emerging victorious and clinching the title.
Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni welcomed the New Year in style, hosting a beachside party in Goa surrounded by his loved ones. The celebrations, held at Morjim Beach, were filled with music, dance, and fireworks, giving Dhoni the perfect setting to reflect on his illustrious two-decade cricket career.
Videos of the party have been doing the rounds on social media, showcasing Dhoni’s energetic dance moves with his wife Sakshi. The couple’s chemistry was palpable as they grooved to the music, surrounded by friends and family. Sakshi also took to social media to share a heartwarming moment from the evening, where Dhoni was seen releasing a lantern into the night sky amidst a dazzling fireworks display.
A Special Moment for Dhoni
As Dhoni enters a new year, the celebrations mark a special time for the cricket legend. With a career spanning over two decades, Dhoni has been reflecting on his numerous achievements, including leading India to World Cup victories in 2007 and 2011. The beachside party served as the perfect setting for Dhoni to unwind and cherish moments with his loved ones, as he looks back on an incredible journey.
A Glimpse into Dhoni’s Personal Life
The New Year’s celebrations offered a rare glimpse into Dhoni’s personal life, showcasing his fun-loving and affectionate side. The cricketing world has always admired Dhoni’s calm and composed demeanor on the field, but the beachside party revealed a more relaxed and jovial side to his personality. As Dhoni continues to enjoy his post-cricketing life, fans are eagerly awaiting his next move, whether it’s in the world of sports or beyond.
