17 May, 2025:Indian javelin throw star Neeraj Chopra achieved a long-awaited milestone by crossing the 90-meter mark for the first time in his career at the Doha Diamond League 2025. The Olympic gold medalist threw a remarkable 90.23 meters on his third attempt, setting a new national record and becoming the first Indian and only the third Asian ever to cross this prestigious barrier in men’s javelin throw.

A Landmark Moment for Indian Athletics

Neeraj Chopra’s journey to the 90m club has been closely followed by athletics fans across the world. Chopra had come very close to the mark several times, since his Olympic Victory in 2021, with 89.94 meters at the Stockholm Diamond League in 2022. The 90m mark is considered a gold standard in javelin, and crossing it places Chopra among the sport’s elite.

At the Doha Diamond League, Chopra started strong with an opening throw of 88.44 meters. His second attempt was a foul, but he bounced back in spectacular fashion with his third throw-an impressive 90.23 meters. The stadium cheered as Chopra celebrated this historic achievement.

The Competition: A Dramatic Finish

Despite Chopra’s record-breaking throw, the competition was fierce. Germany’s Julian Weber, also chasing his first 90m throw, delivered a stunning 91.06-meter effort in his final attempt, overtaking Chopra to win the event.  Anderson Peters of Grenada finished third, while India’s Kishore Jena placed eighth.

Chopra’s remaining throws were mixed, with another foul and distances of 80.56 meters and 88.20 meters in his last two attempts. Although he finished second, Chopra’s performance was widely celebrated as a breakthrough for Indian athletics.

National Pride and Reactions

Chopra’s achievement drew praise from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him on social media, calling it a “spectacular feat” and a proud moment for India. Chopra himself expressed happiness at finally crossing the 90m milestone, though he admitted the second-place finish was “a little bit bittersweet”.

“I am very happy for the 90m, but this second place… it actually happened to me also when I competed in Turku and Stockholm. I threw 89.94, and I was always second. And also, here. I broke the national record and got second today. But I am very happy also for Julian Weber. He threw 91, so we both broke 90m for the first time today.” – Neeraj Chopra (Source: The Olympic Games)