On May 16, 2025, India’s Olympic and World Champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra created history at the Doha Diamond League by crossing the 90-metre mark for the first time in his career with a throw of 90.23 metres.
This landmark achievement made him the first Indian to breach this prestigious barrier, though he narrowly missed the gold, finishing second to Germany’s Julian Weber, who threw 91.06 metres. The feat has been widely celebrated across India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and athletics officials praising Chopra’s dedication and the inspiration he provides to aspiring athletes nationwide.
This milestone signals a new high point in Indian athletics and raises hopes for continued success on the global stage.
Neeraj Chopra’s Historic 90.23m Throw: A Moment of National Pride
At the Qatar Sports Club Stadium in Doha, Chopra’s performance was a masterclass in skill and composure. He opened with a strong 88.44-metre throw, followed by a foul in his second attempt, which only seemed to fuel his determination.
On his third throw, Chopra launched the javelin to a stunning 90.23 metres – a distance that not only set a new personal and national record but also placed him among an elite group of just 25 athletes worldwide who have ever crossed the 90-metre threshold. Speaking after the event, Chopra expressed his joy and relief: “For years, people have asked if I could cross 90 metres.
Today, I have done it not just for myself but for every Indian who believes in dreams.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to congratulate him, calling it “a proud moment for India” and praising Chopra’s relentless dedication and discipline. Officials from the Athletics Federation of India echoed these sentiments, noting that Chopra’s achievement would inspire a new generation of athletes.
Overcoming Challenges: The Road to the 90-Metre Club
Chopra’s journey to this historic milestone has been marked by perseverance through injury, near misses, and high expectations. Since winning Olympic gold in Tokyo 2021, he has consistently thrown in the high 80s, with 14 attempts between 88 and 90 metres, but the elusive 90-metre mark had remained out of reach.
Last season, a persistent groin injury hampered his performance, but under the guidance of his new coach, Jan Železný – a legendary three-time Olympic champion and world record holder in javelin – Chopra has refined his technique and regained peak fitness. His previous personal best of 89.94 metres, set in Stockholm in 2022, was tantalisingly close to the 90-metre barrier.
Analysts believe that this breakthrough is a testament to the synergy between Chopra’s talent, expert coaching, and the growing support infrastructure for athletics in India. With the World Athletics Championships approaching, Chopra’s landmark performance has raised expectations for further podium finishes.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Neeraj Chopra’s historic throw is more than a sporting achievement; it is a beacon of hope and a symbol of what can be achieved through perseverance, expert guidance, and national support. His journey underscores the importance of nurturing talent with patience and resources, while inspiring millions across India to dream bigger.
At a time when India is striving to establish itself as a global sporting powerhouse, Chopra’s success highlights the potential that lies within the country’s youth.
The Logical Indian celebrates this milestone as a call to action for policymakers, sports bodies, and society to invest more deeply in grassroots sports and athlete welfare. How do you think India can build on Chopra’s success to create a sustainable ecosystem that empowers more athletes to shine on the world stage?
