For Chopra, the 90m threshold has been a tantalizing target ever since his emergence on the world stage.
In a landmark moment for Indian athletics, Neeraj Chopra shattered a long-standing psychological and national milestone by breaching the 90-metre mark for the first time in his career. Competing at the 2025 Doha Diamond League, the Olympic and World Champion launched his javelin to a breathtaking 90.23 meters on his third attempt, setting a new national record and becoming the first Indian ever to cross the elusive mark at a global event.
Although Chopra finished second behind Germany’s Julian Weber, who claimed victory with a remarkable 91.06m, it was Chopra’s performance that stole the spotlight, thrilling a packed stadium and igniting celebrations across India.
A Moment Years in the Making
For Chopra, the 90m threshold has been a tantalizing target ever since his emergence on the world stage. With previous personal bests in the high 80s, including his former national record of 89.94m, he had often come agonizingly close, but the magical number had remained just out of reach.
After a solid opening throw of 88.44m, followed by a foul, Chopra stepped up for his third attempt with renewed focus. As his javelin soared into the night sky, landing well past the 90m mark, the stadium erupted. The official measurement, 90.23m, sent shockwaves through the global athletics community.
National Record and a New Chapter
The historic throw not only handed Chopra a new personal best and national record, but also elevated him into the elite club of javelin legends who have crossed the 90m barrier. Among them is Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, Chopra’s Olympic rival, adding extra significance to this feat for Indian fans.
This throw was also a testament to Chopra’s renewed approach under new coach Jan Zelezny, the legendary Czech athlete and three-time Olympic gold medallist, whom Chopra brought on board to refine his technique and mindset. Zelezny’s influence was evident in Chopra’s composure, rhythm, and execution throughout the competition.
A Close Finish
While Chopra led for a large part of the event, Weber’s superb 91.06m throw in the later rounds nudged him to second place. Chopra’s subsequent attempts, an 88.20m in his final round, were consistent but not enough to reclaim the top spot.
Still, the pressure of the “90m club” is finally off Chopra’s shoulders. He can now focus on maintaining form as he sets his sights on defending his World Championship gold and aiming for another Olympic triumph in Los Angeles 2028.
