New Delhi: Neeraj Chopra finally crossed the elusive 90-meter mark with a throw of 90.23m but had to settle for second place behind Germany’s Julian Weber in a thrilling men’s javelin event at the Doha leg of the Diamond League on Friday. The 27-year-old Indian, a double Olympic medallist, marked a significant milestone by joining the elite group of javelin throwers who have surpassed 90 meters—a list led by his coach, Jan Zelezny of the Czech Republic. Chopra became the third Asian and 25th overall to achieve this feat.
Despite Chopra’s strong performance, Weber edged ahead with a final throw of 91.06m, claiming the top spot. This was Weber’s first time crossing the 90m mark, making him the 26th athlete in history to do so. His throw is also the world-leading distance of the season so far. Two-time world champion and Paris Olympics bronze medallist Anderson Peters of Grenada secured third place with an opening throw of 84.65m.
Reflecting on his performance, Chopra said, “I am very happy to have breached the 90m mark but it’s a bittersweet experience. My coach Jan Zelezny told me today was the day I could throw 90m. The weather conditions were favorable with warm temperatures and helpful wind. I also told Julian we both could throw 90m. I’m happy for him as well. I believe I can throw even farther in upcoming events. We will work on some aspects and aim for more 90m-plus throws this season.”
Another Indian competitor, Kishore Jena, finished eighth with a below-par throw of 78.60m.
Chopra’s series included an opening throw of 88.44m, a foul, his historic 90.23m third attempt, followed by throws of 80.56m, another foul, and 88.20m. Chopra first competed in Doha in 2018, finishing fourth with 87.43m. Since then, he has steadily improved, winning gold in 2023 with an 88.67m throw and finishing second in 2024 with 88.36m.
The thrilling contest at Doha showcased Chopra’s continued excellence and determination as he pushes toward new personal and seasonal bests.
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