New Delhi: Former Australian pacer Brett Lee responded to India’s double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra’s comment that he was indeed a javelin thrower in his early years.
In a recent interview with JioStar, the official broadcaster of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, Chopra was asked which cricketer he thought could have excelled in javelin. The Haryana superstar picked Brett Lee, saying, “I have heard that Brett Lee was a javelin thrower. I think he could throw the javelin well, especially when he was in his peak years.”
In response to Neeraj’s claim Lee wrote on X with a humble twist that he “nowhere near” Chopra. The 47-year-old confirmed the story but was quick to add a dose of humility he wrote,
“I did throw the javelin back in my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does and continues to do.” He added, “Very tough on the elbow. I have, however, admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well.”
😂 I did throw the javelin back at my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does & continues to do.
Very tough on the elbow. I have however admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well 🔥 🥇 https://t.co/fbbpKzd4bj— @BrettLee_58 (@BrettLee_58) June 30, 2025
Lee is one of the fastest bowlers cricket has ever seen. He ended his career as Australia’s fourth-highest wicket-taker in Tests with 310 scalps and added 380 ODI wickets to his tally. His response showed the respect he holds for Chopra’s discipline while sharing a personal glimpse into his school days.
Neeraj next in action?
Neeraj’s comments come ahead of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, India’s first-ever international javelin competition which is set to take place on July 5 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. Originally, the tournament was scheduled for May, but the event was moved due to logistical challenges and will now host top throwers from around the world alongside leading Indian athletes.
The event is organised by Chopra in collaboration with JSW Sports and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India. The event is poised to elevate India’s profile in global javelin athletics. With Chopra returning from back-to-back victories in the Paris Diamond League and Ostrava Golden Spike, the Bengaluru event has already created a buzz among Indian sports fans.
Lee’s graceful acknowledgement and Neeraj’s admiration reflect a mutual respect between two champions from different worlds. It’s a reminder that while sports may differ, the values of humility, hard work and appreciation for fellow athletes remain the same.
As Chopra prepares to inspire a new generation of javelin throwers on home soil, Lee’s words stand as a subtle cheer from a champion who knows what it takes to generate raw speed, whether it’s through a cricket ball or a spear aimed at the sky.