Neeraj Chopra Opens Up About His Journey in an Exclusive Chat with Duolingo English Test
Olympic Gold Medallist Neeraj Chopra Shares Insights on Success and Language Learning in Fireside Chat
During an exclusive event hosted by Duolingo English Test (DET), Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra shared candid and personal insights with three DET test takers - Shalini, Shreyas, and Jesai. The fireside chat, part of an ongoing collaboration between Neeraj and DET, explored the shared experience of Neeraj and the test takers, highlighting the similarities between the mindset needed for sporting success and success abroad.
Neeraj revealed that he taught himself English without formal lessons, relying on a phone app (Duolingo) and learning from his coaches and teammates. He emphasized the importance of consistency, stating that progress comes from showing up repeatedly and working hard, even when things are difficult.
Language was another challenge discussed during the chat, with Neeraj sharing his own journey learning English. He advised students to use available resources consistently, like a language app, without waiting for perfect conditions. He also suggested learning by immersing oneself with people who speak the language, like coaches.
Neeraj encouraged learners to build confidence gradually through regular practice rather than formal education. He saw challenges as opportunities to grow, both on the sports field and in life abroad. Recognizing that global representation requires resilience, focus, and self-belief, Neeraj emphasized that success comes when one keeps showing up and giving their best.
Neeraj also shared a personal story about breaking his wrist during training, stating that he thought his career was over, but he stayed focused on his dream and recovered to win a national medal within six weeks. This story underscored the importance of discipline, resilience, and confidence to achieve international goals.
The Duolingo English Test, which is fully online, costs USD $70 (approx. Rs. 6,000), and delivers results within 48 hours, was also discussed. The test integrates advanced AI and the latest assessment science to deliver accurate, secure, and convenient testing. The Duolingo English Test is accepted by over 5,900 institutions worldwide, including top universities in the USA and Canada.
Neeraj felt proud when he scored 100% on Duolingo and encouraged the test takers to aim for their best. Shalini, Shreyas, and Jesai are the first DETermined Ambassadors, who have aced the Duolingo English Test.
The conversation can be viewed at www.youtube.com/watchv=ZJBG2EEpWZ8. Neeraj's approach reflects his personal experience preparing for international competitions and adapting to new environments, encouraging others to adopt a mindset of discipline and perseverance to pursue dreams beyond borders. The initiative aligns with Duolingo’s mission to democratize access to global education by offering an affordable and accessible English test.
- Neeraj Chopra, while discussing his language learning journey, advised students to embrace resources like sports-analysis techniques to learn English consistently, just as he did with Duolingo.
- Neeraj Chopra's story of overcoming adversity in sports can serve as an inspiration for those seeking education in foreign languages, reminding them of the importance of perseverance, discipline, and self-belief.
