New Delhi: Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra is set to return to the Ostrava Golden Spike athletics meet on June 24, 2025, marking his first competitive appearance at the prestigious event in the Czech Republic after missing out the last two years due to injuries.
The Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medallist had been scheduled to participate in the 2023 and 2024 editions of the event but was forced to withdraw both times. Despite not competing, Chopra attended last year’s meet as a special guest. Now fully fit and eager, he aims to make a winning return on what is a significant stage — the home turf of his legendary coach, Jan Zelezny.
“I’m excited to announce that I will take part in the Golden Spike meeting in Ostrava this year. It’s a legendary event, and this year is even more special. My coach Jan Zelezny, who has won here many times, also serves as the event director,” Chopra said in a statement released by the organisers. “I feel great and hope to deliver a performance with some nice, far-reaching throws. I look forward to seeing you all.”
The Ostrava Golden Spike is one of Europe’s most historic track and field competitions, held annually since 1961. It is part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold series, placing it just below the elite Diamond League in terms of prestige.
Before his much-anticipated outing in Ostrava, Chopra will compete at the Doha Diamond League on May 16, followed by the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic in Bengaluru on May 24. Notably, he has opted to skip the Asian Athletics Championships scheduled from May 27 to 31 in Gumi, South Korea.
The Golden Spike javelin field is expected to be highly competitive, with top names including 2020 Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Jakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic in the lineup.
