India's star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra on Saturday appointed three-time Olympic champion and world record holder Jan Zelezny as his coach ahead of the start of the next season. 58-year-old Zelezny of the Czech Republic is considered the greatest javelin thrower of the modern era.

In his illustrious career, he won three Olympic gold medals (1992, 1996, 2000) and as many world titles (1993, 1995, 2001). Zelezny also holds the world record of 98.48 meters in this event.

Chopra till recently worked with German biomechanics expert Klaus Bartonitz, who was also playing the role of his coach. Chopra, who won gold at the Tokyo Olympics and silver at the Paris Olympics, said that he was a big fan of Zelezny since his early days and used to watch his videos to hone his skills.

Chopra said that I have been a fan of John's technique and accuracy from the very beginning. I spent a lot of time watching his videos. He has been at the top of this sport for so many years. His company is very important to me because both of us have the same style of javelin throwing and he has immense experience.

It is an honor to have Jan with me as I move to the next stage in my career. I am very excited to work with him. Zelezny said in a statement that I had said many years ago that Neeraj has all the qualities to become a great player.

I had also said that if I had to coach a player outside the Czech Republic, my first choice would be Neeraj. I see great potential in him because he is young and capable of improving.