BENGALURU, APRIL 25   :    Four-time World Champion and celebrated shot putter, Dame Valerie Adams, has offered her support to Indian Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra as he prepares to defend his title in the javelin event at the forthcoming Paris Olympics.

During her visit to Bengaluru for the 16th edition of the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) World 10K Bengaluru, Adams empathised with the immense pressure that Neeraj is facing in the lead-up to the prestigious international competition.

“The pressure on Neeraj is undoubtedly immense; the burden he carries is significant. However, being a seasoned athlete, Neeraj understands what lies ahead and is determined to give his best for himself and his nation,” Adams remarked, offering heartfelt words of encouragement to the Indian champion, here on Thursday during a press conference.

Adams, renowned for her illustrious career and distinction as the first woman to secure four consecutive individual titles at the WA World Championships, emphasised the resilience and unwavering commitment required at the pinnacle of athletics. She acknowledged the formidable challenges that elite athletes like Neeraj confront but expressed confidence in his ability to excel under pressure.

The TCS World 10K Bengaluru event, scheduled to take place on Sunday, has provided Adams with a platform to highlight the values of community, inclusivity, and perseverance that resonate deeply within the realm of athletics.

Adams’ supportive gesture adds a significant boost of encouragement and inspiration to Neeraj and the broader Indian athletic community as they gear up for the Paris Olympics.

The much-anticipated event features a generous total prize purse of USD 210,000 USD. With the TCS World 10K Bengaluru relocating to the Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw Parade Ground, organisers anticipate a turnout of over 30,000 participants spanning both physical and virtual categories.(UNI)