India’s Neeraj Chopra has qualified for the final of the javelin throw in the World Athletics Championships 2025 as he moved a step closer to his title defense. Neeraj, a two-time Olympic medallist, will defend his crown at the World Athletics Championships at the same venue in Tokyo, Japan, where he won a gold medal in 2021. Neeraj qualified for the final with an initial throw of 84.85 meters.<h2>Neeraj books place in final</h2>Needing to throw 84.5m to qualify for the final of the javelin throw even at the World Athletics Championships, Neeraj booked his place on the first attempt, having thrown 84.85m, way ahead of the qualification mark. This meant he booked his place in the final 12 athletes who will compete for the title on Thursday. The Indian will have a tough fight if he is to defend his title at the World Athletics Championships, having won a gold medal in 2023.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;In Thursday, Neeraj will be up against Julian Weber of Germany and Jakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic. However, Neeraj’s biggest threat will be Pakistan Arshad Nadeem, who got the better of him at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Arshad’s 92.97m throw outclassed the Indian, but revenge could be sweet on Thursday if Neeraj could defend his title.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-asia-cup-2025-full-squads-complete-fixtures-date-time-venue-and-live-streaming-details-check-all-details-1755585771834">Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details</a><h2>What to expect on Thursday?</h2>Despite having a mixed season, the 27-year-old will be eager to get the better of his opponents as he takes the field on Thursday. The 2025 season has seen the best out of Neeraj, having crossed the 90m mark at the Doha Diamond League in May. It was the first time he crossed the magical mark that had eluded him so far.&nbsp;He finished second in the finals of the Diamond League last month in Zurich, where he finished with a mere throw of 85.01m. Although this may be below his usual standards, he will be eager to end the season on a high note on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Needing to throw 84.5m to qualify for the final of the javelin throw even at the World Athletics Championships, Neeraj Chopra booked his place on the first attempt, having thrown 84.85m, way ahead of the qualification mark.

India’s Neeraj Chopra has qualified for the final of the javelin throw in the World Athletics Championships 2025 as he moved a step closer to his title defense. Neeraj, a two-time Olympic medallist, will defend his crown at the World Athletics Championships at the same venue in Tokyo, Japan, where he won a gold medal in 2021. Neeraj qualified for the final with an initial throw of 84.85 meters. Neeraj books place in final Needing to throw 84.5m to qualify for the final of the javelin throw even at the World Athletics Championships, Neeraj booked his place on the first attempt, having thrown 84.85m, way ahead of the qualification mark. This meant he booked his place in the final 12 athletes who will compete for the title on Thursday. The Indian will have a tough fight if he is to defend his title at the World Athletics Championships, having won a gold medal in 2023. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) In Thursday, Neeraj will be up against Julian Weber of Germany and Jakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic. However, Neeraj’s biggest threat will be Pakistan Arshad Nadeem, who got the better of him at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Arshad’s 92.97m throw outclassed the Indian, but revenge could be sweet on Thursday if Neeraj could defend his title. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details What to expect on Thursday? Despite having a mixed season, the 27-year-old will be eager to get the better of his opponents as he takes the field on Thursday. The 2025 season has seen the best out of Neeraj, having crossed the 90m mark at the Doha Diamond League in May. It was the first time he crossed the magical mark that had eluded him so far. He finished second in the finals of the Diamond League last month in Zurich, where he finished with a mere throw of 85.01m. Although this may be below his usual standards, he will be eager to end the season on a high note on Thursday.

Needing to throw 84.5m to qualify for the final of the javelin throw even at the World Athletics Championships, Neeraj Chopra booked his place on the first attempt, having thrown 84.85m, way ahead of the qualification mark.

World Athletics Championships 2025: Neeraj Chopra qualifies for javelin throw final, set for title defense

India’s Neeraj Chopra will take to the field on Wednesday (Sep 15) as he starts his World Athletics Championships campaign in Tokyo, Japan. The 2020 Olympic gold medallist will be eager to defend his crown as he faces stern competition despite a personal best of 90.23m. So ahead of Neeraj’s qualification campaign at the World Athletics Championships, here are all the details, including live streaming and more.<h2>Neeraj begins campaign</h2>The 27-year-old has been in sparkling form lately despite missing the Silesia leg of the Diamond League in Poland. The Indian, despite a below-par throw of 85.01m, finished second in the Diamond League final standings and will be out to prove a point in the World Athletics Championships, which started on Saturday (Sep 13). Interestingly, eyes will also be on other big names like Arshad Nadeem, Julian Weber and Brazil's Luiz da Silva.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-asia-cup-2025-full-squads-complete-fixtures-date-time-venue-and-live-streaming-details-check-all-details-1755585771834">Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details</a><h2>Will Neeraj Chopra go head-to-head against Arshad Nadeem at the World Athletics Championships 2025?</h2>During the qualification phase of the World Athletics Championships 2025, Neeraj Chopra won’t go head-to-head against Arshad Nadeem. They are placed in different groups in the qualification phase.<h2>What time is Neeraj Chopra’s World Athletics Championships 2025 event?</h2>Neeraj Chopra, who will be competing in Group A, will start his qualification round at 3:40 PM IST on Wednesday (Sep 17), while Arshad Nadeem, competing in Group B, will start his qualification round at 5:15 PM IST.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a><h2>Which channel will broadcast Neeraj Chopra's men’s javelin throw event at the World Athletics Championships 2025 in India on TV?</h2>Neeraj Chopra's men's javelin qualification event at the World Athletics Championships 2025 will be telecast live on the Star Sports channels in India.<h2>Where to live stream Neeraj Chopra’s World Athletics Championships 2025 event in India?</h2>The live streaming of Neeraj Chopra’s men’s javelin throw event will be available on the JioHotstar app and website in India.

The Indian, despite a below-par throw of 85.01m, finished second in the Diamond League final standings and will be out to prove a point in the World Athletics Championships, which started on Saturday (Sep 13).

India’s Neeraj Chopra will take to the field on Wednesday (Sep 15) as he starts his World Athletics Championships campaign in Tokyo, Japan. The 2020 Olympic gold medallist will be eager to defend his crown as he faces stern competition despite a personal best of 90.23m. So ahead of Neeraj’s qualification campaign at the World Athletics Championships, here are all the details, including live streaming and more. Neeraj begins campaign The 27-year-old has been in sparkling form lately despite missing the Silesia leg of the Diamond League in Poland. The Indian, despite a below-par throw of 85.01m, finished second in the Diamond League final standings and will be out to prove a point in the World Athletics Championships, which started on Saturday (Sep 13). Interestingly, eyes will also be on other big names like Arshad Nadeem, Julian Weber and Brazil's Luiz da Silva. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details Will Neeraj Chopra go head-to-head against Arshad Nadeem at the World Athletics Championships 2025? During the qualification phase of the World Athletics Championships 2025, Neeraj Chopra won’t go head-to-head against Arshad Nadeem. They are placed in different groups in the qualification phase. What time is Neeraj Chopra’s World Athletics Championships 2025 event? Neeraj Chopra, who will be competing in Group A, will start his qualification round at 3:40 PM IST on Wednesday (Sep 17), while Arshad Nadeem, competing in Group B, will start his qualification round at 5:15 PM IST. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Which channel will broadcast Neeraj Chopra's men’s javelin throw event at the World Athletics Championships 2025 in India on TV? Neeraj Chopra's men's javelin qualification event at the World Athletics Championships 2025 will be telecast live on the Star Sports channels in India. Where to live stream Neeraj Chopra’s World Athletics Championships 2025 event in India? The live streaming of Neeraj Chopra’s men’s javelin throw event will be available on the JioHotstar app and website in India.

The Indian, despite a below-par throw of 85.01m, finished second in the Diamond League final standings and will be out to prove a point in the World Athletics Championships, which started on Saturday (Sep 13).

World Athletics Championships: When will Neeraj Chopra take field for India? Here's all you need to know

A 19-member Indian team is set to take part in the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, starting from September 13 till September 21. The Indian contingent includes 14 men and five women, competing in 15 different events. Leading the Indian group is two-time Olympic medalist and reigning world champion Neeraj Chopra. He is also India’s top medal hope in the men’s javelin throw. Alongside him, three more Indian javelin throwers - Sachin Yadav, Yash Vir Singh, and Rohit Yadav will also be in action.<h2>Where to watch World Athletics Championships 2025 in India</h2>Fans in India can watch the World Athletics Championships 2025 live on the Star Sports Network. Live streaming will be available on the JioHotstar app and website.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-athletics-championships-2025-neeraj-chopra-to-lead-india-s-19-member-contingent-1756313513554">World Athletics Championships 2025: Neeraj Chopra to lead India's 19-member contingent</a><h2>Full Indian squad for World Athletics Championships 2025</h2><h3>India Men's team</h3><ul><li>Neeraj Chopra (javelin throw)</li><li>Sachin Yadav (javelin throw)</li><li>Yash Vir Singh (javelin throw)</li><li>Rohit Yadav (javelin throw)</li><li>Gulveer Singh (5000m, 10000m)</li><li>Praveen Chithravel (triple jump)</li><li>Abdulla Aboobacker (triple jump)</li><li>Murali Sreeshankar (long jump)</li><li>Sarvesh Kushare (high jump)</li><li>Animesh Kujur (200m)</li><li>Tejas Shirse (110m hurdles)</li><li>Servin Sebastian (20km race walk)</li><li>Ram Baboo (35km race walk)</li><li>Sandeep Kumar (35km race walk)</li></ul><h3>India's Women team</h3><ul><li>Annu Rani (javelin throw)</li><li>Parul Chaudhary (3000m steeplechase)</li><li>Ankita Dhyani (3000m steeplechase)</li><li>Pooja (800m, 1500m)</li><li>Priyanka Goswami (35km race walk)</li></ul><h2>Schedule of Indian athletes at World Athletics Championships 2025</h2><h3>September 13</h3><ul><li>4:00 a.m. – Men’s 35km Race Walk: Ram Baboo, Sandeep Kumar</li><li>4:00 a.m. – Women’s 35km Race Walk: Priyanka Goswami</li><li>4:30 p.m. – Women’s 1500m Heats: Pooja</li></ul><h3>September 14</h3><ul><li>3:10 p.m. – Men’s High Jump Qualification: Sarvesh Kushare</li><li>5:37 p.m. – Women’s 1500m Semifinal: Pooja (if qualified)</li><li>6:00 p.m. – Men’s 10,000m: Gulveer Singh</li></ul><h3>September 15</h3><ul><li>7:00 a.m. – Women’s 3000m Steeplechase Heats: Parul Chaudhary, Ankita Dhyani</li><li>4:10 p.m. – Men’s Long Jump Qualification: Murali Sreeshankar</li><li>4:53 p.m. – Men’s 110m Hurdles Heats: Tejas Shirse</li></ul><h3>September 16</h3><ul><li>5:06 p.m. – Men’s High Jump Final: Sarvesh Kushare (if qualified)</li><li>5:10 p.m. – Men’s 110m Hurdles Semifinal: Tejas Shirse (if qualified)</li><li>6:35 p.m. – Women’s 1500m Final: Pooja (if qualified)</li><li>6:50 p.m. – Men’s 110m Hurdles Final: Tejas Shirse (if qualified)</li></ul><h3>September 17</h3><ul><li>3:40 p.m. – Men’s Javelin Throw Group A: Neeraj Chopra, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh</li><li>4:45 p.m. – Men’s 200m Heats: Animesh Kujur</li><li>5:15 p.m. – Men’s Javelin Throw Group B: Neeraj Chopra, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh</li><li>5:19 p.m. – Men’s Long Jump Final: Murali Sreeshankar (if qualified)</li><li>6:27 p.m. – Women’s 3000m Steeplechase Final: Parul Chaudhary, Ankita (if qualified)</li></ul><h3>September 18</h3><ul><li>3:53 p.m. – Men’s Javelin Throw Final: Neeraj Chopra, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh (if qualified)</li><li>4:28 p.m. – Women’s 800m Heats: Pooja</li><li>5:32 p.m. – Men’s 200m Semifinals: Animesh Kujur (if qualified)</li></ul><h3>September 19</h3><ul><li>4:00 p.m. – Women’s Javelin Throw Qualification Group A: Annu Rani</li><li>4:30 p.m. – Men’s 5000m Heats: Gulveer Singh</li><li>5:13 p.m. – Women’s 800m Semifinal: Pooja (if qualified)</li><li>5:30 p.m. – Women’s Javelin Throw Qualification Group B: Annu Rani</li><li>6:36 p.m. – Men’s 200m Final: Animesh Kujur (if qualified)</li></ul><h3>September 20</h3><ul><li>6:20 a.m. – Men’s 20km Race Walk Final: Servin Sebastian</li><li>5:35 p.m. – Women’s Javelin Throw Final: Annu Rani (if qualified)</li></ul><h3>September 21</h3><ul><li>4:05 p.m. – Women’s 800m Final: Pooja (if qualified)</li><li>4:17 p.m. – Men’s 5000m Final: Gulveer Singh (if qualified)</li></ul>

Here’s all you need to know about squad, live streaming and more of the Indian team that is set to compete at the World Athletics Championships 2025 in Tokyo.

A 19-member Indian team is set to take part in the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, starting from September 13 till September 21. The Indian contingent includes 14 men and five women, competing in 15 different events. Leading the Indian group is two-time Olympic medalist and reigning world champion Neeraj Chopra. He is also India’s top medal hope in the men’s javelin throw. Alongside him, three more Indian javelin throwers - Sachin Yadav, Yash Vir Singh, and Rohit Yadav will also be in action. Where to watch World Athletics Championships 2025 in India Fans in India can watch the World Athletics Championships 2025 live on the Star Sports Network. Live streaming will be available on the JioHotstar app and website. Also Read - World Athletics Championships 2025: Neeraj Chopra to lead India's 19-member contingent Full Indian squad for World Athletics Championships 2025 India Men's team Neeraj Chopra (javelin throw) Sachin Yadav (javelin throw) Yash Vir Singh (javelin throw) Rohit Yadav (javelin throw) Gulveer Singh (5000m, 10000m) Praveen Chithravel (triple jump) Abdulla Aboobacker (triple jump) Murali Sreeshankar (long jump) Sarvesh Kushare (high jump) Animesh Kujur (200m) Tejas Shirse (110m hurdles) Servin Sebastian (20km race walk) Ram Baboo (35km race walk) Sandeep Kumar (35km race walk) India's Women team Annu Rani (javelin throw) Parul Chaudhary (3000m steeplechase) Ankita Dhyani (3000m steeplechase) Pooja (800m, 1500m) Priyanka Goswami (35km race walk) Schedule of Indian athletes at World Athletics Championships 2025 September 13 4:00 a.m. – Men’s 35km Race Walk: Ram Baboo, Sandeep Kumar 4:00 a.m. – Women’s 35km Race Walk: Priyanka Goswami 4:30 p.m. – Women’s 1500m Heats: Pooja September 14 3:10 p.m. – Men’s High Jump Qualification: Sarvesh Kushare 5:37 p.m. – Women’s 1500m Semifinal: Pooja (if qualified) 6:00 p.m. – Men’s 10,000m: Gulveer Singh September 15 7:00 a.m. – Women’s 3000m Steeplechase Heats: Parul Chaudhary, Ankita Dhyani 4:10 p.m. – Men’s Long Jump Qualification: Murali Sreeshankar 4:53 p.m. – Men’s 110m Hurdles Heats: Tejas Shirse September 16 5:06 p.m. – Men’s High Jump Final: Sarvesh Kushare (if qualified) 5:10 p.m. – Men’s 110m Hurdles Semifinal: Tejas Shirse (if qualified) 6:35 p.m. – Women’s 1500m Final: Pooja (if qualified) 6:50 p.m. – Men’s 110m Hurdles Final: Tejas Shirse (if qualified) September 17 3:40 p.m. – Men’s Javelin Throw Group A: Neeraj Chopra, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh 4:45 p.m. – Men’s 200m Heats: Animesh Kujur 5:15 p.m. – Men’s Javelin Throw Group B: Neeraj Chopra, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh 5:19 p.m. – Men’s Long Jump Final: Murali Sreeshankar (if qualified) 6:27 p.m. – Women’s 3000m Steeplechase Final: Parul Chaudhary, Ankita (if qualified) September 18 3:53 p.m. – Men’s Javelin Throw Final: Neeraj Chopra, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh (if qualified) 4:28 p.m. – Women’s 800m Heats: Pooja 5:32 p.m. – Men’s 200m Semifinals: Animesh Kujur (if qualified) September 19 4:00 p.m. – Women’s Javelin Throw Qualification Group A: Annu Rani 4:30 p.m. – Men’s 5000m Heats: Gulveer Singh 5:13 p.m. – Women’s 800m Semifinal: Pooja (if qualified) 5:30 p.m. – Women’s Javelin Throw Qualification Group B: Annu Rani 6:36 p.m. – Men’s 200m Final: Animesh Kujur (if qualified) September 20 6:20 a.m. – Men’s 20km Race Walk Final: Servin Sebastian 5:35 p.m. – Women’s Javelin Throw Final: Annu Rani (if qualified) September 21 4:05 p.m. – Women’s 800m Final: Pooja (if qualified) 4:17 p.m. – Men’s 5000m Final: Gulveer Singh (if qualified)

Here’s all you need to know about squad, live streaming and more of the Indian team that is set to compete at the World Athletics Championships 2025 in Tokyo.

World Athletics Championships 2025: Indian squad, fixtures, live streaming details and more

Noah Lyles and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone lead the US medal charge at the world championships in Tokyo that get under way on Saturday while Armand Duplantis is expected to cement his legacy as the greatest pole vaulter in history. They will be followed by some of the sport's biggest names &nbsp;-- Faith Kipyegon, Karsten Warholm and Femke Bol among them -- as they seek to etch their names into the history books over nine days of action. This world championships, for which all female athletes will have undergone a mandatory gene test, will close a season that has featured 15 thrilling Diamond League meets and Michael Johnson's fledgling Grand Slam Track series.Grand Slam was launched in the hope of bringing the top track performers together, but it floundered and the fourth of the four-meet series was cancelled due to financial difficulties.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ange-postecoglou-returns-to-premier-league-as-nottingham-forest-new-manager-1757427667476">Ange Postecoglou returns to Premier League as Nottingham Forest’s new manager</a>Olympic 100m champions Lyles and Julien Alfred opted out of the series, instead focusing on the Diamond League, and both notched up morale-boosting victories at the circuit's finals in Zurich this month.Lyles said he would head to Tokyo "with a lot of energy (and) I will use that to my advantage", after outstripping Botswana's Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo over the longer sprint.But Kishane Thompson of Jamaica, who lost to Lyles by just five thousandths of a second at the Paris Olympics, is the fastest man this year at 100m having clocked 9.75sec.Tebogo and Alfred will be seeking to repeat their feats in Paris when both claimed golds in firsts for Botswana and Saint Lucia."I feel like I want to add another gold in my collection," Alfred said. "I am much fitter than before and also mentally, I am in the right place where I want to be."The US track and field team has a lot to live up to -- the Americans have topped the medals table at the world championships 15 times in the 19 editions.The then-East Germany finished top in the opening two worlds in 1983 and 1987 while Russia dominated in 2001 and Kenya did in 2015.McLaughlin-Levrone, the Olympic 400m hurdles champion, world record holder and the dominant performer in that event, has opted to compete in the 400m flat in Tokyo.In her absence, Dutchwoman Femke Bol is the locked-in favourite for the hurdles: the only woman to have dipped under the 52sec mark this season arrives in Japan on the back of eight successive victories.<h2>'I'm greedy'</h2>Men's 400m hurdles world record holder Warholm goes up against Olympic champion Rai Benjamin and former world champion Alison dos Santos in one of the most keenly anticipated races.Warholm clocked the third-fastest time in history -- 46.28sec -- at the Silesia Diamond League meet, getting close to the stunning world record of 45.94sec he set when winning gold at the Covid-delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021 in the same stadium where these world championships are being held."I have three titles as world champion and I want more. I'm greedy," said the Norwegian.Duplantis is being pushed by Greece's Emmanouil Karalis in the pole vault, but the US-born Swede is untouchable on his day. The question is whether he will be able to better his own world record for a 14th time.There will be hopes for double Kenyan delight in the men's 800m and the women's 1,500m through Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Faith Kipyegon.Despite having contested only three official races this year, albeit one in a world record time, Kipyegon is fancied to win a fourth world 1,500m title and draw level with Moroccan legend Hicham El Guerrouj.<h2>Two-lap rivalry</h2>Olympic champion Wanyonyi headlines a crop of talented athletes in the 800m, with David Rudisha's world record of 1min 40.91sec from the 2012 London Olympics seriously under threat.Such is the current rivalry over the two-lap race that when the athletes line up for the heats next week at the National Stadium, there will be not only Wanyonyi, but defending world champion Marco Arop and 11 other men who have dipped below 1:43 this year.Missing through injury will be American Olympic 200m gold medallist Gabby Thomas and Australia's Olympic and world pole vault champion Nina Kennedy.Dutch phenomenon Sifan Hassan, who has won three golds and three bronzes at the last two Olympics from 1,500m to the marathon, chose to prioritise last month's Sydney marathon.And Uganda's half-marathon world record holder Jacob Kiplimo and double Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei have not made the trip to Tokyo due to personal reasons.

This world championships, for which all female athletes will have undergone a mandatory gene test, will close a season that has featured 15 thrilling Diamond League meets and Michael Johnson's fledgling Grand Slam Track series.

Noah Lyles and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone lead the US medal charge at the world championships in Tokyo that get under way on Saturday while Armand Duplantis is expected to cement his legacy as the greatest pole vaulter in history. They will be followed by some of the sport's biggest names -- Faith Kipyegon, Karsten Warholm and Femke Bol among them -- as they seek to etch their names into the history books over nine days of action. This world championships, for which all female athletes will have undergone a mandatory gene test, will close a season that has featured 15 thrilling Diamond League meets and Michael Johnson's fledgling Grand Slam Track series. Grand Slam was launched in the hope of bringing the top track performers together, but it floundered and the fourth of the four-meet series was cancelled due to financial difficulties. Also Read: Ange Postecoglou returns to Premier League as Nottingham Forest’s new manager Olympic 100m champions Lyles and Julien Alfred opted out of the series, instead focusing on the Diamond League, and both notched up morale-boosting victories at the circuit's finals in Zurich this month. Lyles said he would head to Tokyo "with a lot of energy (and) I will use that to my advantage", after outstripping Botswana's Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo over the longer sprint. But Kishane Thompson of Jamaica, who lost to Lyles by just five thousandths of a second at the Paris Olympics, is the fastest man this year at 100m having clocked 9.75sec. Tebogo and Alfred will be seeking to repeat their feats in Paris when both claimed golds in firsts for Botswana and Saint Lucia. "I feel like I want to add another gold in my collection," Alfred said. "I am much fitter than before and also mentally, I am in the right place where I want to be." The US track and field team has a lot to live up to -- the Americans have topped the medals table at the world championships 15 times in the 19 editions. The then-East Germany finished top in the opening two worlds in 1983 and 1987 while Russia dominated in 2001 and Kenya did in 2015. McLaughlin-Levrone, the Olympic 400m hurdles champion, world record holder and the dominant performer in that event, has opted to compete in the 400m flat in Tokyo. In her absence, Dutchwoman Femke Bol is the locked-in favourite for the hurdles: the only woman to have dipped under the 52sec mark this season arrives in Japan on the back of eight successive victories. 'I'm greedy' Men's 400m hurdles world record holder Warholm goes up against Olympic champion Rai Benjamin and former world champion Alison dos Santos in one of the most keenly anticipated races. Warholm clocked the third-fastest time in history -- 46.28sec -- at the Silesia Diamond League meet, getting close to the stunning world record of 45.94sec he set when winning gold at the Covid-delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021 in the same stadium where these world championships are being held. "I have three titles as world champion and I want more. I'm greedy," said the Norwegian. Duplantis is being pushed by Greece's Emmanouil Karalis in the pole vault, but the US-born Swede is untouchable on his day. The question is whether he will be able to better his own world record for a 14th time. There will be hopes for double Kenyan delight in the men's 800m and the women's 1,500m through Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Faith Kipyegon. Despite having contested only three official races this year, albeit one in a world record time, Kipyegon is fancied to win a fourth world 1,500m title and draw level with Moroccan legend Hicham El Guerrouj. Two-lap rivalry Olympic champion Wanyonyi headlines a crop of talented athletes in the 800m, with David Rudisha's world record of 1min 40.91sec from the 2012 London Olympics seriously under threat. Such is the current rivalry over the two-lap race that when the athletes line up for the heats next week at the National Stadium, there will be not only Wanyonyi, but defending world champion Marco Arop and 11 other men who have dipped below 1:43 this year. Missing through injury will be American Olympic 200m gold medallist Gabby Thomas and Australia's Olympic and world pole vault champion Nina Kennedy. Dutch phenomenon Sifan Hassan, who has won three golds and three bronzes at the last two Olympics from 1,500m to the marathon, chose to prioritise last month's Sydney marathon. And Uganda's half-marathon world record holder Jacob Kiplimo and double Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei have not made the trip to Tokyo due to personal reasons.

This world championships, for which all female athletes will have undergone a mandatory gene test, will close a season that has featured 15 thrilling Diamond League meets and Michael Johnson's fledgling Grand Slam Track series.

World Athletics Championship: Olympic champ Noah Lyles leads US charge

It was a night that Neeraj Chopra would not like to remember, at least not by the standards that he has set in recent times. In the run up to the World Athletics Championships next month in Tokyo, the two-time Olympic medalist and reigning world champion, Neeraj Chopra, on Thursday (August 28) finished second with a throw of 85.01m at the Diamond League Final, which was held at Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium. Germany's Julian Weber was in sensational form as he came first with a huge throw of 91.51m. Keshorn Walcott came in at third with a throw of 84.95m. Notably, Neeraj Chopra had three consecutive foul throws.

Neeraj Chopra Finishes Second In Diamond League Final

It was a night that Neeraj Chopra would not like to remember, at least not by the standards that he has set in recent times. In the run up to the World Athletics Championships next month in Tokyo, the two-time Olympic medalist and reigning world champion, Neeraj Chopra, on Thursday (August 28) finished second with a throw of 85.01m at the Diamond League Final, which was held at Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium. Germany's Julian Weber was in sensational form as he came first with a huge throw of 91.51m. Keshorn Walcott came in at third with a throw of 84.95m. Notably, Neeraj Chopra had three consecutive foul throws.&nbsp;In his first attempt, Neeraj was not at his best. He threw 84.35m, while Germany's Julian Weber set the bar with a massive throw of 91.37m and Grenada's Julius Yego recorded a throw of 80.49m. At the end of round 1, Neeraj was placed third. Trinbagonian Keshorn Walcott was at second with a throw of 84.95m. Coming to the second round, Julian Weber after throwing 91.37m, was a on a roll as he threw 91.51m. Neeraj in his second attempt recorded a threw of 82m. At the end of the second attempt, Neeraj was still at third.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-draw-all-team-home-and-away-matches-1756404127202">UEFA Champions League Draw: Check all home and away matches for each team</a>&nbsp;In the third round, Switzerland's Simon Wieland recorded a throw of 77.04m, but it was not enough for the 24-year-old to make it to the final round. Neeraj had a golden opportunity to catch Weber as he had a foul attempt, but as destiny would have it, Neeraj also had a foul attempt. After round three, Weber led the chart with a throw of 91.51m, followed by Keshorn Walcott (84.95m), Neeraj Chopra (84.35m) at third, Anderson Peters (82.06m) at fourth and Julius Yego (82.01m) at fifth.&nbsp;Coming to the fourth round, the fight was on between Julian Weber and Neeraj Chopra. But it was not a night that Neeraj would like to remember as he had another foul throw. Meanwhile, Weber recorded 83.66m. After four rounds, Weber was still at top, while Neeraj stayed at third.&nbsp;For Neeraj, it came down to the last two rounds. In the fifth round, Neeraj once again had a foul attempt. It was a hat-trick of foul attempts from the India's star javelin thrower. Meanwhile, Weber threw 86.45m. After five round, Weber still led with a throw of 91.51m, Walcott was at second with a throw of 84.95m, while Neeraj was at third with a throw of 84.35m. In the last round, Neeraj had his best throw of the night and threw 85.01m to overtake Walcott and come second, while Julian Weber threw 88.66m and Walcott finished third.

Diamond League Final: Neeraj Chopra finishes second with a throw of 85.01m, Julian Weber wins title

It was a night that Neeraj Chopra would not like to remember, at least not by the standards that he has set in recent times. In the run up to the World Athletics Championships next month in Tokyo, the two-time Olympic medalist and reigning world champion, Neeraj Chopra, on Thursday (August 28) finished second with a throw of 85.01m at the Diamond League Final, which was held at Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium. Germany's Julian Weber was in sensational form as he came first with a huge throw of 91.51m. Keshorn Walcott came in at third with a throw of 84.95m. Notably, Neeraj Chopra had three consecutive foul throws. In his first attempt, Neeraj was not at his best. He threw 84.35m, while Germany's Julian Weber set the bar with a massive throw of 91.37m and Grenada's Julius Yego recorded a throw of 80.49m. At the end of round 1, Neeraj was placed third. Trinbagonian Keshorn Walcott was at second with a throw of 84.95m. Coming to the second round, Julian Weber after throwing 91.37m, was a on a roll as he threw 91.51m. Neeraj in his second attempt recorded a threw of 82m. At the end of the second attempt, Neeraj was still at third. Also Read: UEFA Champions League Draw: Check all home and away matches for each team In the third round, Switzerland's Simon Wieland recorded a throw of 77.04m, but it was not enough for the 24-year-old to make it to the final round. Neeraj had a golden opportunity to catch Weber as he had a foul attempt, but as destiny would have it, Neeraj also had a foul attempt. After round three, Weber led the chart with a throw of 91.51m, followed by Keshorn Walcott (84.95m), Neeraj Chopra (84.35m) at third, Anderson Peters (82.06m) at fourth and Julius Yego (82.01m) at fifth. Coming to the fourth round, the fight was on between Julian Weber and Neeraj Chopra. But it was not a night that Neeraj would like to remember as he had another foul throw. Meanwhile, Weber recorded 83.66m. After four rounds, Weber was still at top, while Neeraj stayed at third. For Neeraj, it came down to the last two rounds. In the fifth round, Neeraj once again had a foul attempt. It was a hat-trick of foul attempts from the India's star javelin thrower. Meanwhile, Weber threw 86.45m. After five round, Weber still led with a throw of 91.51m, Walcott was at second with a throw of 84.95m, while Neeraj was at third with a throw of 84.35m. In the last round, Neeraj had his best throw of the night and threw 85.01m to overtake Walcott and come second, while Julian Weber threw 88.66m and Walcott finished third.

India's ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra recorded a throw of 85.01m to finish second in the 2025 Diamond League Final in Zurich. Germany's Julian Weber stood first with a massive throw of 91.51m

India's 19-member team will be led by reigning world champion Neeraj Chopra at the upcoming 2025 World Athletics Championships, which will take place in Tokyo, set to take place from September 13 to 21. A key highlight of the team is Animesh Kujur, who has made history by becoming the first male sprinter from India to qualify for the World Athletics Championships. Neeraj Chopra, who is the defending champion in men's javelin throw, has qualified through a wild card entry. He will compete alongside Sachin Yadav and Yashvir Singh in the same event, both of whom earned their spots based on world rankings.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sleeping-giant-in-coma-again-fifa-warns-india-of-fresh-ban-1756307692265">Sleeping giant in coma again? FIFA warns India of fresh ban</a>&nbsp;Other athletes from India who have qualified by meeting entry standards include Avinash Sable (3000m steeplechase), Parul Chaudhary (3000m steeplechase), Gulveer Singh (5000m), and Praveen Chithravel (triple jump). Unfortunately, Sable will not compete due to an injury that ended his season prematurely. Although long jumper Murali Sreeshankar's 8.06m leap earned him gold in his latest competition, he fell short of the required 8.27m mark for qualification. Women's javelin thrower Annu Rani also cut through world rankings with a series of consistent 60m-plus throws this season.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bwf-world-championships-dhruv-tanisha-begin-campaign-with-win-over-irish-duo-1756311642495">BWF World Championships: Dhruv-Tanisha begin campaign with win over Irish duo.</a>&nbsp;The standout story is Animesh Kujur, who holds the national record in both the 100m and 200m. He will compete in the 200m, making it the first time India has fielded an athlete in this event at the global level. Nandini Agasara, the Asian champion in the heptathlon, had secured her place but will miss the Championships due to an elbow injury.<h2>Here’s a look at the 19 athletes representing India at the World Athletics Championships 2025</h2>Wildcard Entry:<ul><li>Neeraj Chopra (Men's Javelin Throw - Defending Champion)</li></ul>Entry Standard Qualifiers:<ul><li>Praveen Chithravel (Men's Triple Jump)</li><li>Gulveer Singh (Men's 5000m)</li><li>Avinash Sable (Men's 3000m Steeplechase)</li><li>Parul Chaudhary (Women's 3000m Steeplechase)</li></ul>World Ranking Qualifiers:<ul><li>Animesh Kujur (Men's 200m)</li><li>Annu Rani (Women's Javelin Throw)</li><li>Sachin Yadav (Men's Javelin Throw)</li><li>Yashvir Singh (Men's Javelin Throw)</li><li>Ankita Dhyani (Women's 3000m Steeplechase)</li><li>Murali Sreeshankar (Men's Long Jump)</li><li>Abdulla Aboobacker (Men's Triple Jump)</li><li>Sarvesh Kushare (Men's High Jump)</li><li>Nandini Agasara (Heptathlon)</li><li>Pooja (Women's 1500m)</li><li>Servin Sebastian (Men's 20km Race Walk)</li><li>Akshdeep Singh (Men's 20km Race Walk)</li><li>Ram Baboo (Men's 35km Race Walk)</li><li>Priyanka Goswami (Women's 35km Race Walk)</li></ul>

World Athletics Championships 2025 Neeraj Chopra to lead Indias 19 member contingent

India's 19-member team will be led by reigning world champion Neeraj Chopra at the upcoming 2025 World Athletics Championships, which will take place in Tokyo, set to take place from September 13 to 21. A key highlight of the team is Animesh Kujur, who has made history by becoming the first male sprinter from India to qualify for the World Athletics Championships. Neeraj Chopra, who is the defending champion in men's javelin throw, has qualified through a wild card entry. He will compete alongside Sachin Yadav and Yashvir Singh in the same event, both of whom earned their spots based on world rankings. Also Read: Sleeping giant in coma again? FIFA warns India of fresh ban Other athletes from India who have qualified by meeting entry standards include Avinash Sable (3000m steeplechase), Parul Chaudhary (3000m steeplechase), Gulveer Singh (5000m), and Praveen Chithravel (triple jump). Unfortunately, Sable will not compete due to an injury that ended his season prematurely. Although long jumper Murali Sreeshankar's 8.06m leap earned him gold in his latest competition, he fell short of the required 8.27m mark for qualification. Women's javelin thrower Annu Rani also cut through world rankings with a series of consistent 60m-plus throws this season. Also Read: BWF World Championships: Dhruv-Tanisha begin campaign with win over Irish duo. The standout story is Animesh Kujur, who holds the national record in both the 100m and 200m. He will compete in the 200m, making it the first time India has fielded an athlete in this event at the global level. Nandini Agasara, the Asian champion in the heptathlon, had secured her place but will miss the Championships due to an elbow injury. Here’s a look at the 19 athletes representing India at the World Athletics Championships 2025 Wildcard Entry: Neeraj Chopra (Men's Javelin Throw - Defending Champion) Entry Standard Qualifiers: Praveen Chithravel (Men's Triple Jump) Gulveer Singh (Men's 5000m) Avinash Sable (Men's 3000m Steeplechase) Parul Chaudhary (Women's 3000m Steeplechase) World Ranking Qualifiers: Animesh Kujur (Men's 200m) Annu Rani (Women's Javelin Throw) Sachin Yadav (Men's Javelin Throw) Yashvir Singh (Men's Javelin Throw) Ankita Dhyani (Women's 3000m Steeplechase) Murali Sreeshankar (Men's Long Jump) Abdulla Aboobacker (Men's Triple Jump) Sarvesh Kushare (Men's High Jump) Nandini Agasara (Heptathlon) Pooja (Women's 1500m) Servin Sebastian (Men's 20km Race Walk) Akshdeep Singh (Men's 20km Race Walk) Ram Baboo (Men's 35km Race Walk) Priyanka Goswami (Women's 35km Race Walk)

The World Athletics Championships 2025 will be held in Tokyo, Japan. The biennial athletics competition will be held from 13-21 September

World Athletics Championships 2025: Neeraj Chopra to lead India's 19-member contingent

Neeraj Chopra has made a habit of turning big stages into moments of history. Now, the two-time Olympian and reigning world champion is preparing for another career-defining evening as he lines up for the Diamond League Final at Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium on Thursday (August 28). For the Indian star, the mission is twofold: finish the season with the prestigious trophy and, if the conditions align, produce yet another throw beyond the 90-metre mark.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-us-open-2025-outfit-sparkly-red-roses-in-ponytail-and-a-billie-jean-labubu-doll-1756288351997">Naomi Osaka US Open 2025 outfit: Sparkly roses in ponytail and a 'Billie Jean' Labubu doll</a><h2>Will Neeraj breach 90m again?</h2>The 26-year-old has already achieved one of his long-standing personal goals this year when he breached the 90-metre mark in Doha, a moment that had eluded him despite years of consistency at the very top. That throw not only settled a personal milestone but also added another layer to his reputation as the sport’s global face. Since then, Chopra has followed up with commanding performances, including a victory in the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025.&nbsp;The competition in Zurich, however, will be anything but straightforward. Defending champion Anderson Peters of Grenada, European powerhouse Julian Weber, and several other elite throwers are all part of the final field. Weber, in particular, enters the event as the year’s leader after edging Chopra earlier in the season, setting up what could be one of the most competitive battles of the year in men’s javelin event.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-alcaraz-cut-his-hair-us-open-2022-winner-reveals-reason-1756283286078">Why did Alcaraz cut his hair - US Open 2022 winner reveals reason</a>&nbsp;For Chopra, the Diamond League trophy carries a sense of unfinished business. He first won it three years ago, becoming the first Indian athlete to achieve the feat, but missed out in the seasons that followed. A return to the top step in Zurich would not only be a fitting close to a landmark year but also reaffirm his dominance in a discipline where margins are measured in centimeters and mental resilience often proves decisive.&nbsp;Beyond the results, Chopra’s presence has transformed how Indians view track and field. Stadiums in Europe now fill with tricolours whenever he competes, and the Zurich crowd can expect to see a strong contingent of supporters adding to the atmosphere. With the pressure of global titles behind him and the belief that a second 90-metre throw is well within reach, Chopra enters the finale both as a favourite and as the sport’s standard-bearer. The stage is set in Zurich: a star athlete at the peak of his powers, a high-calibre field, and the promise of one last spectacle before the curtain falls on the Diamond League season.<h2>When and where to watch</h2>When: The event will take place in Zurich at the Letzigrund Stadium on Thursday, August 28.Time: 11:15pm ISTWhere you can watch: Sports18 channel &nbsp;(TV)

Neeraj Chopra sets sights on Diamond League glory in Zurich. When and where to watch

Neeraj Chopra has made a habit of turning big stages into moments of history. Now, the two-time Olympian and reigning world champion is preparing for another career-defining evening as he lines up for the Diamond League Final at Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium on Thursday (August 28). For the Indian star, the mission is twofold: finish the season with the prestigious trophy and, if the conditions align, produce yet another throw beyond the 90-metre mark. Also Read: Naomi Osaka US Open 2025 outfit: Sparkly roses in ponytail and a 'Billie Jean' Labubu doll Will Neeraj breach 90m again? The 26-year-old has already achieved one of his long-standing personal goals this year when he breached the 90-metre mark in Doha, a moment that had eluded him despite years of consistency at the very top. That throw not only settled a personal milestone but also added another layer to his reputation as the sport’s global face. Since then, Chopra has followed up with commanding performances, including a victory in the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025. The competition in Zurich, however, will be anything but straightforward. Defending champion Anderson Peters of Grenada, European powerhouse Julian Weber, and several other elite throwers are all part of the final field. Weber, in particular, enters the event as the year’s leader after edging Chopra earlier in the season, setting up what could be one of the most competitive battles of the year in men’s javelin event. Also Read: Why did Alcaraz cut his hair - US Open 2022 winner reveals reason For Chopra, the Diamond League trophy carries a sense of unfinished business. He first won it three years ago, becoming the first Indian athlete to achieve the feat, but missed out in the seasons that followed. A return to the top step in Zurich would not only be a fitting close to a landmark year but also reaffirm his dominance in a discipline where margins are measured in centimeters and mental resilience often proves decisive. Beyond the results, Chopra’s presence has transformed how Indians view track and field. Stadiums in Europe now fill with tricolours whenever he competes, and the Zurich crowd can expect to see a strong contingent of supporters adding to the atmosphere. With the pressure of global titles behind him and the belief that a second 90-metre throw is well within reach, Chopra enters the finale both as a favourite and as the sport’s standard-bearer. The stage is set in Zurich: a star athlete at the peak of his powers, a high-calibre field, and the promise of one last spectacle before the curtain falls on the Diamond League season. When and where to watch When: The event will take place in Zurich at the Letzigrund Stadium on Thursday, August 28. Time: 11:15pm IST Where you can watch: Sports18 channel (TV)

The Diamond League is set to take place in Zurich on Thursday (August 28). A total of seven javelin throwers will compete in the event

India’s Neeraj Chopra has officially qualified for the final of the Diamond League 2025 as he looks to end the season on a high. Neeraj, a former Olympic champion, failed to defend his crown in Paris in 2024, having settled for a silver medal while Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem clinched gold. Neeraj qualifies for the Diamond League final despite missing the Silesia leg in Poland. He is one of the three names who have qualified for the final alongside Keshorn Walcott and Julian Weber.<h2>Neeraj advances to Diamond League final</h2>In the latest rankings announced after the Silesia leg of the Diamond League, Neeraj has been ranked third with 15 points. With less than two weeks to go for the final of the Diamond League in Zurich, Neeraj is unlikely to finish outside the qualifying places. Trinbagonian star and Neeraj’s nearest competitor, Keshorn Walcott, is ranked first with 17 points as he qualifies for the summit clash with the most points.&nbsp;Julian Weber, another of Neeraj’s close competitors, is also among the athletes who booked their place in the final.&nbsp;Neeraj has been in excellent form since changing coaches and has already racked up his best throw. For the first time in his career, he threw above 90 meters during the Doha Diamond League in May. The 27-year-old threw 90.23 meters, setting a new personal best under the coaching of Jan Zelezny. Despite that record throw, Neeraj had to settle for the second spot as Julain Weber took the top spot in Doha.&nbsp;ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628"> From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;The 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medalist did not disappoint, though, as he would go on to win the Paris Diamond League in June, a year after he had won a silver medal at the same venue. The title in Paris is the only time he has finished in a winner’s position at the Diamond League this season.&nbsp;The Indian athlete has been careful with his choices throughout the season, missing several tournaments to avoid injury-related issues. Neeraj will also have his eyes on the World Championship as he looks to defend the crown in September.

Neeraj Chopra, a former Olympic champion, failed to defend his crown in Paris in 2024, having settled for a silver medal while Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem clinched gold. Neeraj qualifies for the Diamond League final despite missing the Silesia leg in Poland. 

India’s Neeraj Chopra has officially qualified for the final of the Diamond League 2025 as he looks to end the season on a high. Neeraj, a former Olympic champion, failed to defend his crown in Paris in 2024, having settled for a silver medal while Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem clinched gold. Neeraj qualifies for the Diamond League final despite missing the Silesia leg in Poland. He is one of the three names who have qualified for the final alongside Keshorn Walcott and Julian Weber. Neeraj advances to Diamond League final In the latest rankings announced after the Silesia leg of the Diamond League, Neeraj has been ranked third with 15 points. With less than two weeks to go for the final of the Diamond League in Zurich, Neeraj is unlikely to finish outside the qualifying places. Trinbagonian star and Neeraj’s nearest competitor, Keshorn Walcott, is ranked first with 17 points as he qualifies for the summit clash with the most points. Julian Weber, another of Neeraj’s close competitors, is also among the athletes who booked their place in the final. Neeraj has been in excellent form since changing coaches and has already racked up his best throw. For the first time in his career, he threw above 90 meters during the Doha Diamond League in May. The 27-year-old threw 90.23 meters, setting a new personal best under the coaching of Jan Zelezny. Despite that record throw, Neeraj had to settle for the second spot as Julain Weber took the top spot in Doha. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) The 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medalist did not disappoint, though, as he would go on to win the Paris Diamond League in June, a year after he had won a silver medal at the same venue. The title in Paris is the only time he has finished in a winner’s position at the Diamond League this season. The Indian athlete has been careful with his choices throughout the season, missing several tournaments to avoid injury-related issues. Neeraj will also have his eyes on the World Championship as he looks to defend the crown in September.

Neeraj Chopra, a former Olympic champion, failed to defend his crown in Paris in 2024, having settled for a silver medal while Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem clinched gold. Neeraj qualifies for the Diamond League final despite missing the Silesia leg in Poland.&nbsp;

India's Neeraj Chopra advances to Diamond League final in Zurich despite skipping Silesia leg

Himani Mor, wife of two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra, has turned down a high-paying job offer from US to carve her own path in the sports business. In an interview with Dainik Bhaskar, her father, Chand Mor, revealed that Himani, who earlier stepped away from professional tennis, is now focused on building her own venture.&nbsp;“She also turned down a ₹1.5 crore sports-related job offer in the USA and instead will focus on her own business now,” he was quoted saying. A graduate in sports and fitness management from Franklin Pierce University in the US, Himani is currently in Europe with Neeraj, who is in the middle of an intense training block ahead of a packed season. The couple tied the knot earlier this year in a private ceremony at a resort in Solan, Himachal Pradesh.<h2>Who is Neeraj's wife Himani Mor?</h2>According to reports, Himani hails from Larsauli in Haryana and completed her schooling at Little Angels School in Sonipat — the same institution where Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal studied. A tennis player herself, Himani pursued higher education at Southeastern Louisiana University and later worked as a part-time volunteer assistant tennis coach at Franklin Pierce University. Before moving to the US, she got a bachelor’s degree in political science and physical science from Delhi University’s Miranda House. Her brother, Himanshu, has also played tennis.&nbsp;Himani has also served as a graduate assistant at Amherst College, where she managed the women’s tennis team, handling training, scheduling, recruitment, and budget responsibilities. She has also completed her master of science in sports management and administration degree at the McCormack Isenberg School of Management. Himani began competing in All India Tennis Association (AITA) tournaments in 2018, achieving a career-best national ranking of 42 in singles and 27 in doubles the same year.<h2>What's next for Neeraj Chopra?</h2>The World Athletics entry list for the Silesia Diamond League left the fans disappointed, with two of the biggest names in javelin missing from the roster — India’s double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and Pakistan’s Paris Olympics gold medallist Arshad Nadeem. Both pulled out from the event, dashing hopes of a much-anticipated clash between the arch-rivals. The showdown would have been their first meeting since the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Nadeem claimed gold with a record-breaking throw, while Chopra settled for silver. Neeraj’s next major appearance will now be at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he will look to defend his crown.

Neeraj Chopra’s wife Himani Mor quits tennis, declines ₹1.5 crore job offer in US — Reason will surprise you

Himani Mor, wife of two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra, has turned down a high-paying job offer from US to carve her own path in the sports business. In an interview with Dainik Bhaskar, her father, Chand Mor, revealed that Himani, who earlier stepped away from professional tennis, is now focused on building her own venture. “She also turned down a ₹1.5 crore sports-related job offer in the USA and instead will focus on her own business now,” he was quoted saying. A graduate in sports and fitness management from Franklin Pierce University in the US, Himani is currently in Europe with Neeraj, who is in the middle of an intense training block ahead of a packed season. The couple tied the knot earlier this year in a private ceremony at a resort in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Who is Neeraj's wife Himani Mor? According to reports, Himani hails from Larsauli in Haryana and completed her schooling at Little Angels School in Sonipat — the same institution where Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal studied. A tennis player herself, Himani pursued higher education at Southeastern Louisiana University and later worked as a part-time volunteer assistant tennis coach at Franklin Pierce University. Before moving to the US, she got a bachelor’s degree in political science and physical science from Delhi University’s Miranda House. Her brother, Himanshu, has also played tennis. Himani has also served as a graduate assistant at Amherst College, where she managed the women’s tennis team, handling training, scheduling, recruitment, and budget responsibilities. She has also completed her master of science in sports management and administration degree at the McCormack Isenberg School of Management. Himani began competing in All India Tennis Association (AITA) tournaments in 2018, achieving a career-best national ranking of 42 in singles and 27 in doubles the same year. What's next for Neeraj Chopra? The World Athletics entry list for the Silesia Diamond League left the fans disappointed, with two of the biggest names in javelin missing from the roster — India’s double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and Pakistan’s Paris Olympics gold medallist Arshad Nadeem. Both pulled out from the event, dashing hopes of a much-anticipated clash between the arch-rivals. The showdown would have been their first meeting since the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Nadeem claimed gold with a record-breaking throw, while Chopra settled for silver. Neeraj’s next major appearance will now be at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he will look to defend his crown.

India's ace javelin thrower shared the news of his marriage through a social media post on his official X and Instagram accounts in January 2025

On this day, seventy-nine years ago, a free India took its first breath — a nation unshackled, but still learning how to dream on the world’s stage. Today, as the tricolour flutters proudly in every corner of the country, we remember not just our battles for freedom, but the battles fought in stadiums, arenas, and fields across the globe — where Indians have carried that same flag, and the same fire, into the fight for glory. From the dusty wrestling pits of post-Independence villages to Olympic podiums gleaming under floodlights, from small-town playgrounds to cricket’s grandest stage at Lord’s, our athletes have turned sweat into history and grit into gold. These were not just victories in games — they were affirmations of who we are as a people: relentless, fearless, and unwilling to be written off.&nbsp;Every medal won, every record broken, every anthem played in a foreign land has been a salute to the nation itself. As we mark India’s 79th Independence Day, this is the story of India’s greatest sporting moments, stitched into the larger fabric of our national pride.<h2>Olympic firsts and forever legends</h2>The Olympics have been the crucible where some of India’s greatest sporting achievements were made. In 1952 Helsinki, wrestler KD Jadhav became independent India’s first individual Olympic medalist. Four years later in Melbourne, the men’s hockey team struck gold against Pakistan — their first Olympic hockey title as a free nation and sixth consecutive overall. From Leander Paes’ Atlanta 1996 bronze to Karnam Malleswari’s Sydney 2000 bronze, from Abhinav Bindra’s Beijing 2008 Olympic gold to Sushil Kumar’s double Olympic haul (2008 bronze, 2012 silver), the march continued. Tokyo 2020 gave India its first-ever athletics gold through Neeraj Chopra, while Paris 2024 saw Manu Bhaker make history as the first Indian to win two medals in a single games.<h3>Football’s golden hour</h3>Though Indian football’s fortunes have shifted, the Asian Games gold medals in 1951 New Delhi and 1962 Jakarta remain proud landmarks — reminders that India once ruled in the ‘beautiful game.’<h3>Cricket’s coming of age</h3>In 1952, Vinoo Mankad’s 12-wicket haul sealed India’s first Test win over England. That same year, India defeated Pakistan to secure their maiden Test series win. Three decades later, in Kapil Dev’s 1983 Cricket World Cup, India stunned the mighty West Indies to become world champions.&nbsp;Then came MS Dhoni’s ICC trophy treble — the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 Cricket World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy — making him the first captain to win all ICC white-ball titles and restoring India’s cricketing dominance.<h3>Hockey’s World Cup glory</h3>In 1975 Kuala Lumpur, India’s hockey team defeated Pakistan 2-1 to claim their first and only Men’s Hockey World Cup title, a triumph still unmatched.<h3>Shuttlers, Grandmasters, and Grand Slams</h3>Prakash Padukone’s 1980 All England Open win lit the torch for Indian badminton. Pullela Gopichand followed in 2001, paving the way for stars like PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, Kidambi Srikanth, HS Prannoy, and the men’s doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy–Chirag Shetty. Sindhu’s 2019 World Championship gold and India’s Thomas Cup 2022 victory further cemented the sport’s rise.&nbsp;In chess, Viswanathan Anand became India’s first Grandmaster in 1988, inspiring today’s prodigies — D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and Divya Deshmukh. In tennis, Mahesh Bhupathi’s 1997 French Open mixed doubles title made him India’s first Grand Slam champion, followed by Leander Paes, Sania Mirza, and Rohan Bopanna.<h3>New frontiers in athletics and para-sports</h3>After Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic gold in Tokyo Olympics, his 2023 World Championship win made him India’s first world champion in any athletics discipline. He then went on to win silver in 2024 Paris Olympics. Meanwhile, India’s para-athletes have been rewriting history — from a record 19 medals at Tokyo 2020 Paralympics to 29 medals at Paris 2024.<h3>More than games</h3>From KD Jadhav’s bronze in 1952 to Manu Bhaker’s golden double in 2024, from Kapil Dev lifting the Cricket World Cup to Neeraj Chopra lifting the nation’s hopes, India’s sporting story is a celebration of patriotism. On this 79th Independence Day, every cheer, every tear, and every chant of the anthem is a reminder that our athletes don’t just play to win — they play for the flag, for the people, and for the idea of India itself.

Golden throws, giant leaps, and the games we will never forget: Celebrating India’s greatest sporting moments in post-independence era

On this day, seventy-nine years ago, a free India took its first breath — a nation unshackled, but still learning how to dream on the world’s stage. Today, as the tricolour flutters proudly in every corner of the country, we remember not just our battles for freedom, but the battles fought in stadiums, arenas, and fields across the globe — where Indians have carried that same flag, and the same fire, into the fight for glory. From the dusty wrestling pits of post-Independence villages to Olympic podiums gleaming under floodlights, from small-town playgrounds to cricket’s grandest stage at Lord’s, our athletes have turned sweat into history and grit into gold. These were not just victories in games — they were affirmations of who we are as a people: relentless, fearless, and unwilling to be written off. Every medal won, every record broken, every anthem played in a foreign land has been a salute to the nation itself. As we mark India’s 79th Independence Day, this is the story of India’s greatest sporting moments, stitched into the larger fabric of our national pride. Olympic firsts and forever legends The Olympics have been the crucible where some of India’s greatest sporting achievements were made. In 1952 Helsinki, wrestler KD Jadhav became independent India’s first individual Olympic medalist. Four years later in Melbourne, the men’s hockey team struck gold against Pakistan — their first Olympic hockey title as a free nation and sixth consecutive overall. From Leander Paes’ Atlanta 1996 bronze to Karnam Malleswari’s Sydney 2000 bronze, from Abhinav Bindra’s Beijing 2008 Olympic gold to Sushil Kumar’s double Olympic haul (2008 bronze, 2012 silver), the march continued. Tokyo 2020 gave India its first-ever athletics gold through Neeraj Chopra, while Paris 2024 saw Manu Bhaker make history as the first Indian to win two medals in a single games. Football’s golden hour Though Indian football’s fortunes have shifted, the Asian Games gold medals in 1951 New Delhi and 1962 Jakarta remain proud landmarks — reminders that India once ruled in the ‘beautiful game.’ Cricket’s coming of age In 1952, Vinoo Mankad’s 12-wicket haul sealed India’s first Test win over England. That same year, India defeated Pakistan to secure their maiden Test series win. Three decades later, in Kapil Dev’s 1983 Cricket World Cup, India stunned the mighty West Indies to become world champions. Then came MS Dhoni’s ICC trophy treble — the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 Cricket World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy — making him the first captain to win all ICC white-ball titles and restoring India’s cricketing dominance. Hockey’s World Cup glory In 1975 Kuala Lumpur, India’s hockey team defeated Pakistan 2-1 to claim their first and only Men’s Hockey World Cup title, a triumph still unmatched. Shuttlers, Grandmasters, and Grand Slams Prakash Padukone’s 1980 All England Open win lit the torch for Indian badminton. Pullela Gopichand followed in 2001, paving the way for stars like PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, Kidambi Srikanth, HS Prannoy, and the men’s doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy–Chirag Shetty. Sindhu’s 2019 World Championship gold and India’s Thomas Cup 2022 victory further cemented the sport’s rise. In chess, Viswanathan Anand became India’s first Grandmaster in 1988, inspiring today’s prodigies — D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and Divya Deshmukh. In tennis, Mahesh Bhupathi’s 1997 French Open mixed doubles title made him India’s first Grand Slam champion, followed by Leander Paes, Sania Mirza, and Rohan Bopanna. New frontiers in athletics and para-sports After Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic gold in Tokyo Olympics, his 2023 World Championship win made him India’s first world champion in any athletics discipline. He then went on to win silver in 2024 Paris Olympics. Meanwhile, India’s para-athletes have been rewriting history — from a record 19 medals at Tokyo 2020 Paralympics to 29 medals at Paris 2024. More than games From KD Jadhav’s bronze in 1952 to Manu Bhaker’s golden double in 2024, from Kapil Dev lifting the Cricket World Cup to Neeraj Chopra lifting the nation’s hopes, India’s sporting story is a celebration of patriotism. On this 79th Independence Day, every cheer, every tear, and every chant of the anthem is a reminder that our athletes don’t just play to win — they play for the flag, for the people, and for the idea of India itself.

From KD Jadhav to the precision of Abhinav Bindra, from Kapil Dev’s raised World Cup to Neeraj Chopra’s golden throw, India’s sporting story since 1947 is not just about games won or lost — it’s about a nation learning to believe that no podium is out of reach

The entry list released by the World Athletics for the Silesia Diamond League has turned out to be a major disappointment for athletics enthusiasts as it does not have the names of two star javelin throwers - &nbsp;double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra from India and Paris Olympics gold medallist Arshad Nadeem from Pakistan. Both have withdrawn from the upcoming Silesia Diamond League scheduled for August 16 in Poland thus ending all chances of a showdown between the two rivals.&nbsp;A clash between the two would have been the first since their Paris Olympics 2024 face-off, where Arshad made a record-breaking throw that earned him a gold medal, while Neeraj had to be content with silver.&nbsp;Nadeem claimed the Olympic gold with a throw of 92.97m, while Neeraj who had secured silver recorded a best of 89.45m. With the win Nadeem became the first and only individual athlete in the history of Pakistan to win an Olympic gold medal.&nbsp;Also Read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sandip-patil-tears-apart-bcci-selectors-over-jasprit-bumrah-selection-conundrum-workload-management-1754757560214">‘Workload management is nonsense,’ Sandip Patil tears apart BCCI selectors over Bumrah’s selection conundrum</a>&nbsp;The Pakistani star has sighted a surgery on his right calf in July as the reason for withdrawing from the tournament. However, Neeraj's withdrawal from the Silesia Diamond League is not yet known.&nbsp;Earlier in July, India's poster boy dubbed as ‘The Golden Arm’ one, Neeraj Chopra clinched the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 with a sensational throw of 86.18m in front of a packed Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium.&nbsp;While Nadeem, who was also invited to the event declined the invitation due to a conflict with his training schedule for the Asian Athletics Championships, which Arshad won.&nbsp;Neeraj on the other hand did not participate in the event. Notably, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 &nbsp;was happening at the time India and Pakistan were involved in a military conflict after the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;

A clash between the Neeraj and Nadeem would have been the first since their Paris Olympics 2024 face-off, where the Pakistani star made a record-breaking throw and clinched Gold.

The entry list released by the World Athletics for the Silesia Diamond League has turned out to be a major disappointment for athletics enthusiasts as it does not have the names of two star javelin throwers - double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra from India and Paris Olympics gold medallist Arshad Nadeem from Pakistan. Both have withdrawn from the upcoming Silesia Diamond League scheduled for August 16 in Poland thus ending all chances of a showdown between the two rivals. A clash between the two would have been the first since their Paris Olympics 2024 face-off, where Arshad made a record-breaking throw that earned him a gold medal, while Neeraj had to be content with silver. Nadeem claimed the Olympic gold with a throw of 92.97m, while Neeraj who had secured silver recorded a best of 89.45m. With the win Nadeem became the first and only individual athlete in the history of Pakistan to win an Olympic gold medal. Also Read: ‘Workload management is nonsense,’ Sandip Patil tears apart BCCI selectors over Bumrah’s selection conundrum The Pakistani star has sighted a surgery on his right calf in July as the reason for withdrawing from the tournament. However, Neeraj's withdrawal from the Silesia Diamond League is not yet known. Earlier in July, India's poster boy dubbed as ‘The Golden Arm’ one, Neeraj Chopra clinched the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 with a sensational throw of 86.18m in front of a packed Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium. While Nadeem, who was also invited to the event declined the invitation due to a conflict with his training schedule for the Asian Athletics Championships, which Arshad won. Neeraj on the other hand did not participate in the event. Notably, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 was happening at the time India and Pakistan were involved in a military conflict after the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

A clash between the Neeraj and Nadeem would have been the first since their Paris Olympics 2024 face-off, where the Pakistani star made a record-breaking throw and clinched Gold.

Neeraj Chopra, Arshad Nadeem's clash at the Silesia Diamond League will not happen

On August 7, 2021, a young man from Khandra village in Haryana rewrote Indian sporting history. With a thunderous throw of 87.58 metres, Neeraj Chopra clinched India’s first Olympic gold in athletics at the Tokyo Games, ushering in a new era for Indian track and field. That one moment, captured in slow motion across millions of screens, wasn’t just about distance—it was about belief.&nbsp;&nbsp;For a country starved of Olympic success in athletics, it was a long-overdue validation. Since then, August 7 has been officially recognised as National Javelin Day—not just to honour Neeraj, but to celebrate what he set in motion. Today, four years on, javelin is no longer an obscure discipline in India. It is a sport on the rise, riding on the shoulders of Neeraj’s consistency, humility, and undeniable greatness. With the World Athletics Championships 2025 around the corner, and Neeraj still the face of Indian athletics, it’s worth reflecting on the journey that started in Tokyo and continues to blaze forward.<h2>The day that changed everything</h2>India had waited for decades to witness an athlete stand atop the Olympic podium in athletics. When Neeraj unleashed his gold-winning throw at the Tokyo Olympic Stadium, he broke a 100-year drought—India had never won a track and field medal, let alone gold, in Olympic history.&nbsp;What stood out wasn’t just the medal but the composure of the man himself. At just 23, Neeraj looked unfazed by the pressure, calmly walking back after every throw, eyes focused, posture relaxed. His technique, timing, and temperament were impeccable. More importantly, he made the sport accessible. Young Indians saw in him not a distant superhuman, but someone they could relate to—a boy from a village who made it to the top with hard work and self-belief. The result? A nation took notice.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Four years since the day I lived my dream. Happy Javelin Day! 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/8fY7o27vwc">pic.twitter.com/8fY7o27vwc</a>&mdash; Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1/status/1953421096742432821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>India’s javelin boom after Neeraj's gold medal</h2>Post-Tokyo, javelin suddenly became mainstream. Sports academies reported a surge in inquiries about javelin coaching. Sales of javelins went up. State governments began investing in infrastructure. Social media was flooded with slow-mo throws. And for the first time, athletics—not cricket—dominated primetime debates and watercooler conversations.&nbsp;The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) capitalised on this momentum by declaring August 7 as National Javelin Day. The idea was to create a lasting legacy, to inspire a new generation. In 2022 and 2023, over 600 districts across India hosted local javelin competitions on this date.&nbsp;&nbsp;AFI even launched a “Find the Next Neeraj” initiative to scout talent from rural areas. This wasn’t a flash in the pan. India, which once had only one credible javelin star, now boasts a growing pool of athletes. Kishore Kumar Jena, DP Manu, and Shivpal Singh have emerged as strong contenders on the world stage. Chopra’s golden throw wasn’t the end—it was the beginning.<h2>Neeraj: The superstar of India</h2>Despite his fame, endorsements, and global acclaim, Neeraj Chopra remains refreshingly grounded. Whether he’s training in Europe or speaking to schoolchildren in Haryana, his humility is intact. He often speaks of his struggles with injury, his commitment to discipline, and how success hasn’t changed his core. Chopra followed his Olympic gold with another historic achievement—a silver at the 2022 World Athletics Championships, making him India’s first male athlete to win a Worlds medal. Then came the Diamond League title in 2022, the Asian Games gold in 2023, and another World Championship gold in 2024, cementing his status as one of the greatest ever javelin throwers.&nbsp;The world now sees Neeraj not just as a one-Olympics wonder, but as a consistent elite athlete. He is part of an exclusive club of javelin greats—routinely throwing over 88 metres. And then came the inevitable. Neeraj Chopra finally crossed the elusive 90m mark at the 2025 Doha Diamond League on May 16, 2025. Neeraj kicked off the event with a 88.44m throw. His second attempt was not a valid one. He breached the 90m mark in his third attempt. In his fourth attempt, the 27-year-old threw 80.56m, while his fifth throw was not valid and his last throw, he threw 88.20m.<h2>What Neeraj means to India?</h2>In a country where cricket once overshadowed all other sports, Neeraj Chopra became a disruptor. He changed the narrative. Suddenly, javelin throw became part of pop culture. Bollywood biopics were discussed. Kids in playgrounds mimicked his throwing stance. Brands lined up, not just for his achievements but his relatability.&nbsp;More importantly, he shifted the conversation around Indian athletes. No longer was international success seen as unattainable. Chopra, along with stars like PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, and Nikhat Zareen, is part of a new breed of Indian athletes who have normalised podium finishes at the biggest stages. He’s also been vocal about clean sport, mental health, and infrastructure needs—all while letting his performance do most of the talking. His rise has brought attention not just to javelin, but to biomechanics, diet, recovery science, and athletic systems in India.<h2>The road to Tokyo... again?</h2>As the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo approach next month, all eyes will once again be on Neeraj. It’s poetic that he returns to the city that made him a household name. But this time, the stakes are even higher. He’s no longer the underdog—he’s the man to beat.&nbsp;His competition is fierce. Czech star Jakub Vadlejch, Germany’s Julian Weber, and young sensation Artur Felfner from Ukraine are all throwing long and hard. But Neeraj’s strength lies in his mental calmness. He doesn’t chase records—he chases rhythm, and that often proves decisive in championship settings. His training base in Finland continues to give him access to the best coaches, throwers, and conditions. He’s carefully planned his season, skipping smaller meets to peak for the Worlds.<h2>What next for Indian javelin?</h2>India’s javelin future looks bright, but it needs nurturing. Infrastructure remains a challenge. Equipment, coaching, and sports science support in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities are still patchy. But the AFI’s grassroots efforts, Neeraj’s mentorship, and increased media spotlight are helping.<h2>A legacy still in the making</h2>Four years ago, Neeraj Chopra’s golden throw made India believe. Today, as we celebrate National Javelin Day, we’re not just remembering that throw—we’re celebrating the ripple effect it created. From stadiums in rural Haryana to packed stands in Europe, Neeraj’s story continues to inspire. But his journey isn’t done. With the World Championships and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, the next few years could be even more defining. He’s no longer just a champion—he’s the flagbearer of Indian athletics. And as India readies to cheer again, one thing is certain—when Neeraj Chopra steps on the runway, an entire nation holds its breath, waiting for magic.

National Javelin Day: Four years since Tokyo Gold, India still rides the Neeraj Chopra wave

On August 7, 2021, a young man from Khandra village in Haryana rewrote Indian sporting history. With a thunderous throw of 87.58 metres, Neeraj Chopra clinched India’s first Olympic gold in athletics at the Tokyo Games, ushering in a new era for Indian track and field. That one moment, captured in slow motion across millions of screens, wasn’t just about distance—it was about belief. For a country starved of Olympic success in athletics, it was a long-overdue validation. Since then, August 7 has been officially recognised as National Javelin Day—not just to honour Neeraj, but to celebrate what he set in motion. Today, four years on, javelin is no longer an obscure discipline in India. It is a sport on the rise, riding on the shoulders of Neeraj’s consistency, humility, and undeniable greatness. With the World Athletics Championships 2025 around the corner, and Neeraj still the face of Indian athletics, it’s worth reflecting on the journey that started in Tokyo and continues to blaze forward. The day that changed everything India had waited for decades to witness an athlete stand atop the Olympic podium in athletics. When Neeraj unleashed his gold-winning throw at the Tokyo Olympic Stadium, he broke a 100-year drought—India had never won a track and field medal, let alone gold, in Olympic history. What stood out wasn’t just the medal but the composure of the man himself. At just 23, Neeraj looked unfazed by the pressure, calmly walking back after every throw, eyes focused, posture relaxed. His technique, timing, and temperament were impeccable. More importantly, he made the sport accessible. Young Indians saw in him not a distant superhuman, but someone they could relate to—a boy from a village who made it to the top with hard work and self-belief. The result? A nation took notice.

The two-time Olympic champion recently won the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 event, held in Bengaluru, with a throw of 86.18m and will now be taking part in the upcoming World Athletic Championships to be held in Tokyo

National Javelin Day 2025: Neeraj Chopra’s Tokyo Gold turns four, but its impact only grows

At the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, the press conference room was buzzing. Neeraj Chopra responded to a flurry of questions from the media, his answers were crisp and confident. But before the next question could be asked, he would turn towards the foreign athletes sitting besides him. With ease, Neeraj began translating what had just been said—switching from Hindi to English without missing a beat. It wasn’t just a translation; it was a bridge between two worlds, built entirely through his own self-taught journey in English. And that journey didn’t start with a private tutor or at any institution. It began with nothing more than curiosity, a phone app, and a determination as unshakable as his javelin arm.&nbsp;Several years back, Neeraj Chopra was part of a panel at an event when a student asked him a question in English. Neeraj smilingly asked him and said, “Hindi aati hain aapko, Hindi mein hi pooch lo aap?” (Do you know Hindi? Please ask the question in Hindi).<h2>Here's the video of Neeraj asking student to speak in Hindi</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">So GREAT to see Our Olympic Gold Medalist Neeraj Chopra gently &amp; politely promoting Hindi Language 👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HindiDiwas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HindiDiwas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%80_%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#हिंदी_दिवस</a> <a href="https://t.co/sPQMb0AGyE">pic.twitter.com/sPQMb0AGyE</a>&mdash; Rosy (@rose_k01) <a href="https://twitter.com/rose_k01/status/1437655820812972039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the world of sports where the competitors frequently have teams of tutors and interpreters, Neeraj went DIY. No grammar classes, no lessons—just sharp ears, good coaches, and the Duolingo owl on his phone for company. And though the gold medals might be the most dazzling, his own path to learning English is a story of grit, humility, and some laugh-out-loud language gaffes.&nbsp;Recently, Neeraj Chopra opened up—not about training methods or medal wins, but about his relationship with the English language. As it turns out, Neeraj did not get to take advantage of fancy tutors or pricey language lessons. No, instead he learned English from his coaches, his teammates, and—his phone. “I started learning by listening to my coaches speak. Then, I used Duolingo whenever I had time,” he was quoted saying in an interview with Duolingo English Test takers. &nbsp;Neeraj's learning of English wasn't about communication alone—it was about confidence. “At first, I was hesitant. But I kept practicing. That’s all you need—consistency and belief,” he added. &nbsp;Training with foreign coaches introduced Neeraj to a mix of languages, ranging from German to Swedish. He even learned phrases to interact with them better. But not all his efforts were effortless.“I once greeted someone in German with full confidence,” he laughed. “But when they replied fluently, I panicked and switched back to English immediately!” &nbsp;The anecdote left everyone in stitches—and established this: even world champions make mistakes, and that's perfectly fine. Neeraj Chopra's story is a reminder that language should not be an obstacle—it should be a bridge. Whether it's just throwing a javelin 90meters or just speaking your first full English sentence, it all begins with one thing: putting in the effort.<h2>Here's the link to the full video:</h2>

Speaking to students preparing to embark on their journeys abroad, Neeraj shared heartfelt advice. He said, “I come from a small village, and I had a dream to represent my country and play for India. If you have a dream, don’t just keep it as a dream. Work hard for it, and make the people who matter in your life believe in it too. Their support makes everything stronger. It may take time, but if you keep working at it, it will happen.”

Neeraj Chopra once asked a student to ask question in Hindi Years on Olympic champion taught himself to speak English Heres how

At the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, the press conference room was buzzing. Neeraj Chopra responded to a flurry of questions from the media, his answers were crisp and confident. But before the next question could be asked, he would turn towards the foreign athletes sitting besides him. With ease, Neeraj began translating what had just been said—switching from Hindi to English without missing a beat. It wasn’t just a translation; it was a bridge between two worlds, built entirely through his own self-taught journey in English. And that journey didn’t start with a private tutor or at any institution. It began with nothing more than curiosity, a phone app, and a determination as unshakable as his javelin arm. Several years back, Neeraj Chopra was part of a panel at an event when a student asked him a question in English. Neeraj smilingly asked him and said, “Hindi aati hain aapko, Hindi mein hi pooch lo aap?” (Do you know Hindi? Please ask the question in Hindi). Here's the video of Neeraj asking student to speak in Hindi

The two-time Olympic champion recently won the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 event, held in Bengaluru, with a throw of 86.18m

Neeraj Chopra once requested a student to ask question in Hindi. Years on, Olympic champion taught himself to speak English. Here's how

Pakistan's Javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has called out prize promises made to him after his historic gold at the Paris Olympics 2024 as fake. Nadeem alleged that not all promised to him has been given after he became Pakistan's first ever individual gold medalist in a track and field event. Nadeem, notably, had been defending champion and arch-rival India's Neeraj Chopra to claim the gold with a throw of 92.97m at the Stade de France last August - also an Olympic record. Neeraj, meanwhile, finished second and won a silver in the contest.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-the-first-woman-to-defeat-iga-swiatek-at-wimbledon-she-is-an-olympic-silver-medalist-1752757165833">Who is the first woman to defeat Iga Swiatek at Wimbledon? She is an Olympic silver medalist</a>“Out of all the prize announcements made for me, all the plot announcements were fake, which I did not receive. Apart from that, I have received all the cash prizes that were announced,” said Nadeem as reported by local media Geo TV. The athlete, however, vowed to not let unfulfilled promised to get in the way of his preparation for the World Championship scheduled in August and said: “My entire focus is on myself, but apart from that, we train any youth who comes to us for training, and this training is given by my coach Salman Butt.”Nadeem was not part of the recently-concluded Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event held in India on July 5. The event was organized and hosted by Indian athlete Neeraj Chopra who had withdrawn his invitation to Nadeem due to political tensions which had recently escalated in aftermath of terror attack in India's Pahalgam. Nadeem, however, had said that he had already declined taking part in the tournament due to a calf injury for which he recently underwent surgery as reported by A Sports. Nadeem and Chopra are expected to face off each other in the upcoming Diamond League in Silesia, Poland, on August 16.

Nadeem was not part of the recently-concluded Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event held in India on July 5. The event was organized and hosted by Indian athlete Neeraj Chopra who had withdrawn his invitation to Pakistani athlete.

Pakistan's Javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has called out prize promises made to him after his historic gold at the Paris Olympics 2024 as fake. Nadeem alleged that not all promised to him has been given after he became Pakistan's first ever individual gold medalist in a track and field event. Nadeem, notably, had been defending champion and arch-rival India's Neeraj Chopra to claim the gold with a throw of 92.97m at the Stade de France last August - also an Olympic record. Neeraj, meanwhile, finished second and won a silver in the contest. Also Read - Who is the first woman to defeat Iga Swiatek at Wimbledon? She is an Olympic silver medalist “Out of all the prize announcements made for me, all the plot announcements were fake, which I did not receive. Apart from that, I have received all the cash prizes that were announced,” said Nadeem as reported by local media Geo TV. The athlete, however, vowed to not let unfulfilled promised to get in the way of his preparation for the World Championship scheduled in August and said: “My entire focus is on myself, but apart from that, we train any youth who comes to us for training, and this training is given by my coach Salman Butt.” Nadeem was not part of the recently-concluded Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event held in India on July 5. The event was organized and hosted by Indian athlete Neeraj Chopra who had withdrawn his invitation to Nadeem due to political tensions which had recently escalated in aftermath of terror attack in India's Pahalgam. Nadeem, however, had said that he had already declined taking part in the tournament due to a calf injury for which he recently underwent surgery as reported by A Sports. Nadeem and Chopra are expected to face off each other in the upcoming Diamond League in Silesia, Poland, on August 16.

Nadeem was not part of the recently-concluded Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event held in India on July 5. The event was organized and hosted by Indian athlete Neeraj Chopra who had withdrawn his invitation to Pakistani athlete.

Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem calls out 'fake prize announcements' promised after Paris gold

The stands were electrifying, chants of ‘Neeraj Neeraj Neeraj’, echoed under the floodlights, and nearly 15,000 spectators filled the Bengaluru's Kanteerava stadium. But this time, the roar wasn’t just for an Olympic champion. It was for a movement — a celebration of javelin, hosted by none other than India's poster boy Neeraj Chopra himself.&nbsp;“This was completely different,” Neeraj said, recounting his experience as an organiser. “Usually, as an athlete, you come, you train, you perform and you leave. But here, I was managing every little detail — from food to the athlete rooms to making sure the javelins were handed to throwers on time.”&nbsp;That attention to detail wasn’t just logistical; it was deeply personal. “It felt like I was inviting people to my house for dinner. I wanted everything to be perfect.” The stakes were high, not just because of his name being associated, but because this was India's shot at showcasing its own javelin culture — something that hadn’t existed a decade ago.&nbsp;And the response? Overwhelming. “The best part,” Neeraj says with a smile, “was how the crowd supported everyone — not just the Indians. That’s rare. All the athletes were so happy.” But even amid the applause, Chopra wasn’t basking in the glory. He was racing behind the scenes, managing timing delays, urging volunteers to speed up javelin returns, and making sure every athlete was taken care of.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I still feel like an athlete,” he said, “but here I had a different mindset — more like a host.”<h2>The athlete’s dilemma</h2>Even as he plays host, Neeraj remains locked in a personal battle — the eternal athlete’s pursuit of perfection. "In training, I feel great. My throws are strong. But in competition, I struggle to maintain the same technique.” The specific issue? “I go too much to the left during my run-up. That’s where I lose power that should go into the throw. My coach and I are working hard to correct that.”&nbsp;Neeraj credits his coach — the legendary Jan Zelezny — for being both a perfectionist and a calming influence. “When I do well, he gets angry because he knows I can do more. But when I don’t do well, he says, ‘It’s okay, we have time.’ That’s the mindset we’re taking to the Tokyo World Championships.”&nbsp;He’s also adjusting his physical approach. After struggling with groin and elbow issues in the past dew years, Neeraj made a trip to Prague to work with Dr. Pavel, a specialist recommended by Zelezny. The result? A new style of run-up with shorter, faster steps and less groin stretch — allowing him to compete injury-free.&nbsp;But it’s not just about his body anymore. Neeraj is thinking legacy. When asked about being the face of Indian javelin, he shrugs humbly, but then opens up: “If I pass the baton, I want the next one to run even faster — like catching Usain Bolt. I want our Indian athletes to be stronger — not just physically but mentally. They should believe that yes, we can do this.”&nbsp;That belief, he says, is already taking root — aided by better infrastructure, increased funding, and growing government support. “But one thing we really need,” Neeraj stresses, “is more Indian coaches. We can’t always rely on foreign experts. We need our own experts who understand our athletes, our systems, our conditions.”&nbsp;Zelezny’s visit to India for the event was symbolic. “For us, it was a golden opportunity,” Neeraj Chopra said at the launch of the Under Armour Brand House in Gurugram where he also welcomed new athletes to the Under Armour squad. “He has given his life to javelin, and seeing him so happy with how the event turned out meant a lot.”&nbsp;Still, moments of emotion outweigh technical success. His family travelled from Haryana to watch him compete live for the first time. “My mom was crying when I fell in the first round,” he said, smiling. “Even my sisters got emotional seeing me out there.”&nbsp;And then there’s the moment of reckoning — the day a junior athlete walks up and greets him with, “Ram Ram bhai sahab.” Neeraj chuckles, “That’s when I realised — okay, now I’m the senior.”<h2>Looking ahead&nbsp;</h2>So, what’s next? “The Tokyo World Championships are the priority,” Neeraj confirmed. “Diamond Leagues are important, but we’ll plan them smartly with the coach.” His training base remains the Czech Republic — the epicenter of elite javelin technique. There, between technical drills and rehab routines, he’s working on something bigger than gold — consistency. “I just want to stay consistent. That’s what I’m chasing now.” When asked about the 2028 Olympics, he pauses. “Still time. It’s not on my mind every day. I believe in taking it step by step.”&nbsp;For a man who has already won two Olympic medals, hosted an international event, and become a role model to a generation, Neeraj Chopra remains disarmingly grounded. His eyes are still fixed on the runway. The only difference now — he’s bringing the whole country along with him.

My mom was crying when I fell in the first round recalls Neeraj Chopra after successfully hosting NC Classic 2025

The stands were electrifying, chants of ‘Neeraj Neeraj Neeraj’, echoed under the floodlights, and nearly 15,000 spectators filled the Bengaluru's Kanteerava stadium. But this time, the roar wasn’t just for an Olympic champion. It was for a movement — a celebration of javelin, hosted by none other than India's poster boy Neeraj Chopra himself. “This was completely different,” Neeraj said, recounting his experience as an organiser. “Usually, as an athlete, you come, you train, you perform and you leave. But here, I was managing every little detail — from food to the athlete rooms to making sure the javelins were handed to throwers on time.” That attention to detail wasn’t just logistical; it was deeply personal. “It felt like I was inviting people to my house for dinner. I wanted everything to be perfect.” The stakes were high, not just because of his name being associated, but because this was India's shot at showcasing its own javelin culture — something that hadn’t existed a decade ago. And the response? Overwhelming. “The best part,” Neeraj says with a smile, “was how the crowd supported everyone — not just the Indians. That’s rare. All the athletes were so happy.” But even amid the applause, Chopra wasn’t basking in the glory. He was racing behind the scenes, managing timing delays, urging volunteers to speed up javelin returns, and making sure every athlete was taken care of. “I still feel like an athlete,” he said, “but here I had a different mindset — more like a host.” The athlete’s dilemma Even as he plays host, Neeraj remains locked in a personal battle — the eternal athlete’s pursuit of perfection. "In training, I feel great. My throws are strong. But in competition, I struggle to maintain the same technique.” The specific issue? “I go too much to the left during my run-up. That’s where I lose power that should go into the throw. My coach and I are working hard to correct that.” Neeraj credits his coach — the legendary Jan Zelezny — for being both a perfectionist and a calming influence. “When I do well, he gets angry because he knows I can do more. But when I don’t do well, he says, ‘It’s okay, we have time.’ That’s the mindset we’re taking to the Tokyo World Championships.” He’s also adjusting his physical approach. After struggling with groin and elbow issues in the past dew years, Neeraj made a trip to Prague to work with Dr. Pavel, a specialist recommended by Zelezny. The result? A new style of run-up with shorter, faster steps and less groin stretch — allowing him to compete injury-free. But it’s not just about his body anymore. Neeraj is thinking legacy. When asked about being the face of Indian javelin, he shrugs humbly, but then opens up: “If I pass the baton, I want the next one to run even faster — like catching Usain Bolt. I want our Indian athletes to be stronger — not just physically but mentally. They should believe that yes, we can do this.” That belief, he says, is already taking root — aided by better infrastructure, increased funding, and growing government support. “But one thing we really need,” Neeraj stresses, “is more Indian coaches. We can’t always rely on foreign experts. We need our own experts who understand our athletes, our systems, our conditions.” Zelezny’s visit to India for the event was symbolic. “For us, it was a golden opportunity,” Neeraj Chopra said at the launch of the Under Armour Brand House in Gurugram where he also welcomed new athletes to the Under Armour squad. “He has given his life to javelin, and seeing him so happy with how the event turned out meant a lot.” Still, moments of emotion outweigh technical success. His family travelled from Haryana to watch him compete live for the first time. “My mom was crying when I fell in the first round,” he said, smiling. “Even my sisters got emotional seeing me out there.” And then there’s the moment of reckoning — the day a junior athlete walks up and greets him with, “Ram Ram bhai sahab.” Neeraj chuckles, “That’s when I realised — okay, now I’m the senior.” Looking ahead So, what’s next? “The Tokyo World Championships are the priority,” Neeraj confirmed. “Diamond Leagues are important, but we’ll plan them smartly with the coach.” His training base remains the Czech Republic — the epicenter of elite javelin technique. There, between technical drills and rehab routines, he’s working on something bigger than gold — consistency. “I just want to stay consistent. That’s what I’m chasing now.” When asked about the 2028 Olympics, he pauses. “Still time. It’s not on my mind every day. I believe in taking it step by step.” For a man who has already won two Olympic medals, hosted an international event, and become a role model to a generation, Neeraj Chopra remains disarmingly grounded. His eyes are still fixed on the runway. The only difference now — he’s bringing the whole country along with him.

The two-time Olympic medalist recently won the title at the inaugural edition of the NC Classic 2025 in Bengaluru last week

'My mom was crying when I fell in the first round', recalls Neeraj Chopra after successfully hosting NC Classic 2025

The killing of tennis player Radhika Yadav in Gurugram, Haryana, has left the sporting world stunned. Radhika Yadav, 25, a national-level player and tennis coach, was shot dead by her father after a fight over her tennis academy. Radhika's father Deepak Yadav was sent to police custody for a day by a Gurugram court on Friday (July 11). He has confessed to the crime.&nbsp;The tragic demise of the tennis player, hailing from Haryana, has drawn sympathy from sportspeople as well as Bollywood personalities. Neeraj Chopra, India's ace javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist, has also responded to the killing by appealing to families to stand together to avoid such tragedies.&nbsp;The two-time Olympic medalist said women athletes from Haryana are doing great for the country and that they should be idolised and followed. "I was speaking to a few people about this before. We already have some excellent examples of female athletes from Haryana doing wonders for the country. In families, you should support each other, and those (women athletes) who are doing well should be idolised and followed," Neeraj was quoted saying to NDTV.&nbsp;Radhika was shot dead by her father in the family's double-storey residence in the posh area of Sushant Lok neighbourhood in Gurugram. A court in Gurugram has remanded the accused to police custody for a year. Following the court's direction to send the accused into one-day custody, a police official confirmed that they had requested two days of remand of the accused.<h2>What led to Radhika Yadav’s killing on July 10?</h2>On Thursday (July 10), while Radhika was cooking for her mother on her birthday in the kitchen, Deepak fired five shots from a .32 bore licenced revolver. Three of the bullets pierced Radhika's back and killed her on the spot. An FIR was filed on the complaint of Radhika's uncle, Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;Radhika's mother, Manju Yadav, was present on the same floor when the incident took place. Their son, Dheeraj, was not at home during the incident. At first, Radhika's mother refused to give her statement to the police. She subsequently said that she was lying in her room with a fever when the incident happened and described the sound as being that of a "pressure cooker blast". She further added that Radhika was a good character and never brought any disrepute to the family.&nbsp;Radhika had played for Haryana in different tennis competitions and secured several medals and awards. Yet, two years back, she got injured, which forced her to leave competitive sports.

Women athletes should be idolised and followed Neeraj Chopra reacts on tennis star Radhikas killing

The killing of tennis player Radhika Yadav in Gurugram, Haryana, has left the sporting world stunned. Radhika Yadav, 25, a national-level player and tennis coach, was shot dead by her father after a fight over her tennis academy. Radhika's father Deepak Yadav was sent to police custody for a day by a Gurugram court on Friday (July 11). He has confessed to the crime. The tragic demise of the tennis player, hailing from Haryana, has drawn sympathy from sportspeople as well as Bollywood personalities. Neeraj Chopra, India's ace javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist, has also responded to the killing by appealing to families to stand together to avoid such tragedies. The two-time Olympic medalist said women athletes from Haryana are doing great for the country and that they should be idolised and followed. "I was speaking to a few people about this before. We already have some excellent examples of female athletes from Haryana doing wonders for the country. In families, you should support each other, and those (women athletes) who are doing well should be idolised and followed," Neeraj was quoted saying to NDTV. Radhika was shot dead by her father in the family's double-storey residence in the posh area of Sushant Lok neighbourhood in Gurugram. A court in Gurugram has remanded the accused to police custody for a year. Following the court's direction to send the accused into one-day custody, a police official confirmed that they had requested two days of remand of the accused. What led to Radhika Yadav’s killing on July 10? On Thursday (July 10), while Radhika was cooking for her mother on her birthday in the kitchen, Deepak fired five shots from a .32 bore licenced revolver. Three of the bullets pierced Radhika's back and killed her on the spot. An FIR was filed on the complaint of Radhika's uncle, Kuldeep Yadav. Radhika's mother, Manju Yadav, was present on the same floor when the incident took place. Their son, Dheeraj, was not at home during the incident. At first, Radhika's mother refused to give her statement to the police. She subsequently said that she was lying in her room with a fever when the incident happened and described the sound as being that of a "pressure cooker blast". She further added that Radhika was a good character and never brought any disrepute to the family. Radhika had played for Haryana in different tennis competitions and secured several medals and awards. Yet, two years back, she got injured, which forced her to leave competitive sports.

The Two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra on Friday (July 11) said that female athletes from Haryana are doing wonders for the country and the women athletes should be idolised and followed

'Women athletes should be idolised and followed': Neeraj Chopra reacts on tennis star Radhika's killing

It wasn’t just about lifting the title, winning the gold medal or breaching the elusive 90m mark at the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium, in Bengaluru on Saturday (July 5). For India's poster boy, Neeraj Chopra, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 was a statement — that Indian athletics deserves a stage. And that fans, federations, and families need to show up.&nbsp;Inside the stadium, as tricolours waved and chants of “Neeraj! Neeraj!” filled the air, India’s two-time Olympic medalist was in the spotlight. But even in victory, his mind was on something more enduring. What if people will not turn up? But Bengaluru changed that. The Neeraj Chopra Classic marked a rare sight in Indian sport — a stadium packed not for cricket or football, but for a javelin competition. For athletes. For the love of track and field.<h2>‘This is what we have wanted for years’</h2>“I felt really good today. For once, athletics got the support it deserves. This is what we’ve wanted for years,” Neeraj said after winning the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 in front of a packed stadium.&nbsp;What made the evening even more special was the crowd — loud, invested, and passionate. That, for Neeraj, was the biggest victory. “When I started out, there was nobody in the stands. We used to try so hard to get people to come for the nationals,” he recalled emotionally. “Now, people are finally noticing what track and field athletes go through," he added.&nbsp;The emotional core of Neeraj’s message wasn’t about his own greatness. It was about the many Indian athletes still waiting to be seen. It’s been a long road, but Neeraj knows this can’t stop at one successful event. “Please come and support our athletes — not just at big events, but at national-level meets too. You’ll see sprinters, long-distance runners, jumpers, throwers — all working just as hard.”<h2>‘Track and field is demanding but beautiful’</h2>In a country which is obsessed by cricket, Neeraj sees change. But he also sees the need for more — especially if India wants to compete globally across disciplines. “If parents start seeing that people attend these events, that there’s a future in athletics, they’ll start encouraging their kids too.”&nbsp;And this isn’t just about medals. Track and field is one of the hardest sports. It’s raw. It’s demanding. It’s beautiful. And if people give it a chance, they’ll fall in love with it,” Neeraj said with conviction. His ultimate dream? That one day, every major city in India hosts packed stadiums not just for cricket — but for athletes chasing 100m finishes, 2m jumps, and 85m throws.

Neeraj Chopras emotional plea to India Please come and support athletes not just at big events

It wasn’t just about lifting the title, winning the gold medal or breaching the elusive 90m mark at the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium, in Bengaluru on Saturday (July 5). For India's poster boy, Neeraj Chopra, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 was a statement — that Indian athletics deserves a stage. And that fans, federations, and families need to show up. Inside the stadium, as tricolours waved and chants of “Neeraj! Neeraj!” filled the air, India’s two-time Olympic medalist was in the spotlight. But even in victory, his mind was on something more enduring. What if people will not turn up? But Bengaluru changed that. The Neeraj Chopra Classic marked a rare sight in Indian sport — a stadium packed not for cricket or football, but for a javelin competition. For athletes. For the love of track and field. ‘This is what we have wanted for years’ “I felt really good today. For once, athletics got the support it deserves. This is what we’ve wanted for years,” Neeraj said after winning the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 in front of a packed stadium. What made the evening even more special was the crowd — loud, invested, and passionate. That, for Neeraj, was the biggest victory. “When I started out, there was nobody in the stands. We used to try so hard to get people to come for the nationals,” he recalled emotionally. “Now, people are finally noticing what track and field athletes go through," he added. The emotional core of Neeraj’s message wasn’t about his own greatness. It was about the many Indian athletes still waiting to be seen. It’s been a long road, but Neeraj knows this can’t stop at one successful event. “Please come and support our athletes — not just at big events, but at national-level meets too. You’ll see sprinters, long-distance runners, jumpers, throwers — all working just as hard.” ‘Track and field is demanding but beautiful’ In a country which is obsessed by cricket, Neeraj sees change. But he also sees the need for more — especially if India wants to compete globally across disciplines. “If parents start seeing that people attend these events, that there’s a future in athletics, they’ll start encouraging their kids too.” And this isn’t just about medals. Track and field is one of the hardest sports. It’s raw. It’s demanding. It’s beautiful. And if people give it a chance, they’ll fall in love with it,” Neeraj said with conviction. His ultimate dream? That one day, every major city in India hosts packed stadiums not just for cricket — but for athletes chasing 100m finishes, 2m jumps, and 85m throws.

For Neeraj Chopra, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 was a statement — that Indian athletics deserves a stage. And that fans, federations, and families need to show up

Neeraj Chopra's emotional plea to India: Please come and support athletes — not just at big events

When the sun set behind the stands of the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on July 5th, Bengaluru held its breath. Neeraj Chopra, two-time Olympic medalist, reigning world champion, and a national icon, stood at the edge of the runway, javelin in hand — not just as an athlete, but as the architect of the very event he was about to compete in: the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025.&nbsp;And then came the roar. As Neeraj began his run-up, the stadium rose. Flags waved. Children cheered. Adults leaned forward. With a final, violent snap of the arm, the javelin soared across the sky. It wasn’t just a throw — it was a statement. 86.18 metres. A winning mark. A fitting end to a day that had already begun rewriting the history of Indian athletics. But behind the smiles and celebration lay something deeper — a complex web of pressure, responsibility, and quiet anxiety.&nbsp;After the event, Neeraj sat down for a candid press conference. Not one to hide behind cliches, he opened up — not just about the competition, but about the immense strain of playing dual roles. “Pressure of being the host was more,” he admitted. “I was training, yes. But I was also making sure the logistics were perfectly in lune, all the athletes were comfortable, the schedule was on time.”&nbsp;For three to four days leading into the event, Neeraj was clocking 8 to 9 hours of non-stop activity. He wasn’t just throwing — he was organising, coordinating and leading from the front. From food arrangements at the hotel to checking everything at the stadium, he was involved in it all.&nbsp;“At one point, I was telling the organisers that you can go and pick up the javelins instead of using the car,” he said with a small laugh. “That’s how much this meant to me.”&nbsp;For all his global accolades, Neeraj remains deeply grounded. And despite being the poster boy of Indian athletics, he confessed to feeling nervous before the event — unsure if the crowd would show up, unsure if people would be there. “I’ve trained here in Bengaluru before. I’ve played here during my early years. But this… this was something else,” he said emotionally.&nbsp;As he walked into the arena, chants of “Neeraj! Neeraj!” echoed from all corners. Kids waved the national flag. A standing ovation greeted him before he even made his first throw. “It was emotional. I wasn’t expecting such a turnout,” he said. “It made me want to throw further. But also, it added pressure.”&nbsp;The conditions weren’t easy. A swirling headwind played its part with the technique of even the best throwers not coming up to the mark. Neeraj’s first attempt was fouled — a reminder that this sport, even for its greats, is never forgiving. “I was too close to the line. I over-committed. My coach told me to relax. Energy is good, but you need to use it wisely," he explained.&nbsp;On his next attempts, Neeraj adjusted. Technically tighter, more composed, and emotionally centered, he found his rhythm. “I had seen Julius Yego and Rumesh in really good form. They were pushing me. That helped. I knew I had to be sharp.” His winning throw came in the third round. He felt it the moment it left his hand. “The throw felt clean, powerful. I didn’t need to look at the distance — I knew it had crossed 86.”&nbsp;When asked what he would feel when he finally returned to his hotel room after what was an emotional night for him, Neeraj didn’t opt for drama. He opted for truth. “Will I cry? I don’t know. I haven’t cried in a long time. Not even I won the at the Olympics,” he said softly. “But I will be happy. My family is here. I’ll sit with them, laugh with them. That’s what matters.”&nbsp;For Neeraj, the medal — even the event — wasn’t just about sport. It was about legacy. About building something that lives beyond him. “We’ve done it once. Now we’ll do it again. And better,” he promised.&nbsp;Neeraj Chopra — athlete, champion, host, leader — had just pulled off one of the most significant evenings in Indian athletics. And as he packed up his spikes and stadium lights were turned off, one thing became clear: The throw was brilliant. The competition was successful. But the real triumph was this —India showed up for athletics. And it was because Neeraj Chopra led the way.

I might not cry but I didnt expect such crowd says Neeraj Chopra after an emotional night in Bengaluru

When the sun set behind the stands of the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on July 5th, Bengaluru held its breath. Neeraj Chopra, two-time Olympic medalist, reigning world champion, and a national icon, stood at the edge of the runway, javelin in hand — not just as an athlete, but as the architect of the very event he was about to compete in: the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025. And then came the roar. As Neeraj began his run-up, the stadium rose. Flags waved. Children cheered. Adults leaned forward. With a final, violent snap of the arm, the javelin soared across the sky. It wasn’t just a throw — it was a statement. 86.18 metres. A winning mark. A fitting end to a day that had already begun rewriting the history of Indian athletics. But behind the smiles and celebration lay something deeper — a complex web of pressure, responsibility, and quiet anxiety. After the event, Neeraj sat down for a candid press conference. Not one to hide behind cliches, he opened up — not just about the competition, but about the immense strain of playing dual roles. “Pressure of being the host was more,” he admitted. “I was training, yes. But I was also making sure the logistics were perfectly in lune, all the athletes were comfortable, the schedule was on time.” For three to four days leading into the event, Neeraj was clocking 8 to 9 hours of non-stop activity. He wasn’t just throwing — he was organising, coordinating and leading from the front. From food arrangements at the hotel to checking everything at the stadium, he was involved in it all. “At one point, I was telling the organisers that you can go and pick up the javelins instead of using the car,” he said with a small laugh. “That’s how much this meant to me.” For all his global accolades, Neeraj remains deeply grounded. And despite being the poster boy of Indian athletics, he confessed to feeling nervous before the event — unsure if the crowd would show up, unsure if people would be there. “I’ve trained here in Bengaluru before. I’ve played here during my early years. But this… this was something else,” he said emotionally. As he walked into the arena, chants of “Neeraj! Neeraj!” echoed from all corners. Kids waved the national flag. A standing ovation greeted him before he even made his first throw. “It was emotional. I wasn’t expecting such a turnout,” he said. “It made me want to throw further. But also, it added pressure.” The conditions weren’t easy. A swirling headwind played its part with the technique of even the best throwers not coming up to the mark. Neeraj’s first attempt was fouled — a reminder that this sport, even for its greats, is never forgiving. “I was too close to the line. I over-committed. My coach told me to relax. Energy is good, but you need to use it wisely," he explained. On his next attempts, Neeraj adjusted. Technically tighter, more composed, and emotionally centered, he found his rhythm. “I had seen Julius Yego and Rumesh in really good form. They were pushing me. That helped. I knew I had to be sharp.” His winning throw came in the third round. He felt it the moment it left his hand. “The throw felt clean, powerful. I didn’t need to look at the distance — I knew it had crossed 86.” When asked what he would feel when he finally returned to his hotel room after what was an emotional night for him, Neeraj didn’t opt for drama. He opted for truth. “Will I cry? I don’t know. I haven’t cried in a long time. Not even I won the at the Olympics,” he said softly. “But I will be happy. My family is here. I’ll sit with them, laugh with them. That’s what matters.” For Neeraj, the medal — even the event — wasn’t just about sport. It was about legacy. About building something that lives beyond him. “We’ve done it once. Now we’ll do it again. And better,” he promised. Neeraj Chopra — athlete, champion, host, leader — had just pulled off one of the most significant evenings in Indian athletics. And as he packed up his spikes and stadium lights were turned off, one thing became clear: The throw was brilliant. The competition was successful. But the real triumph was this —India showed up for athletics. And it was because Neeraj Chopra led the way.

India's poster boy Neeraj Chopra clinched the title at the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 in Bengaluru on Saturday (July 5)

'I might not cry, but I didn't expect such crowd', says Neeraj Chopra after an emotional night in Bengaluru

India's poster boy and dubbed as ‘The Golden Arm’ one, Neeraj Chopra clinched the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 with a sensational throw of 86.18m in front of a packed Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on Saturday (July 5). Julius Yego came in at second with a throw of 84.51m and Rumesh Pathirage came in at third with a best throw of 84.34m.&nbsp;Neeraj Chopra entered the field with a standing ovation from the crowd and thunderous round of applause, one which reverberated around the city of Bengaluru. As he got &nbsp;ready for his run up, the crowd held its breath and applauded even though his first throw was a foul. As he stepped up for his second throw, the entire stadium backed him with chants of Neeraj Neeraj Neeraj and he didn't disappoint as he threw 82.99m. His third throw was even better at 86.18m as he did his iconic celebration with both his hands in air and screaming in passion. His fourth throw was a foul. His fifth throw was at 84.07m.&nbsp;Notably, this was also the first time that Neeraj Chopra's grandfather Dharm Singh Chopra, was also watching his grandson compete live from the stand. Prior to the competition, the crowd cheered as the players came out on the field for warm-up. With each javelin going in the air, the crowd's applaud only got higher and higher. The elite line-up included Sahil Silwal, Rohit Yadav, Martin Konecny, Thomas Rohler, Yash Vir Singh, Julius Yego, Sachin Yadav, Rumesh Pathirage, Cyprian Mrzyglod, Luiz Mauricio Da Silva, Curtis Thompson and Neeraj Chopra.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier in the evening, outside the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium in Bengaluru, the wind carried both a breeze and a buzz. Young fans lined up early, eyes wide with anticipation, waiting to catch a glimpse of their javelin heroes. Neeraj Chopra’s jerseys were flying off the stalls like hot cakes, the tricolour fluttered proudly in many little hands, and chants of "Neeraj! Neeraj! Neeraj!" were already starting to rise.&nbsp;Local dance and music troops brought the stage alive with energetic performances, turning the entry gates into mini-festivals. The atmosphere in Bengaluru felt different — electric yet grounded, festive yet reverent. It wasn’t just children who were excited; entire families had shown up and teenagers with face paint. It was as if the city had paused its usual rhythm to come together for a sporting celebration.&nbsp;Inside the stadium, it was no different. The stands were a sea of blue and saffron. Kids stood up on their seats, proudly waving the Indian flag. And when Neeraj Chopra stepped onto the field, time seemed to hold its breath — until, all at once, the silence cracked open into a thunderous roar. The name echoed again and again: Neeraj. Neeraj. Neeraj.&nbsp;This wasn’t just sport. This was emotion. This was India showing up for one of its own.

Phenomenal Neeraj Chopra clinches NC Classic 2025 title

India's poster boy and dubbed as ‘The Golden Arm’ one, Neeraj Chopra clinched the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 with a sensational throw of 86.18m in front of a packed Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on Saturday (July 5). Julius Yego came in at second with a throw of 84.51m and Rumesh Pathirage came in at third with a best throw of 84.34m. Neeraj Chopra entered the field with a standing ovation from the crowd and thunderous round of applause, one which reverberated around the city of Bengaluru. As he got ready for his run up, the crowd held its breath and applauded even though his first throw was a foul. As he stepped up for his second throw, the entire stadium backed him with chants of Neeraj Neeraj Neeraj and he didn't disappoint as he threw 82.99m. His third throw was even better at 86.18m as he did his iconic celebration with both his hands in air and screaming in passion. His fourth throw was a foul. His fifth throw was at 84.07m. Notably, this was also the first time that Neeraj Chopra's grandfather Dharm Singh Chopra, was also watching his grandson compete live from the stand. Prior to the competition, the crowd cheered as the players came out on the field for warm-up. With each javelin going in the air, the crowd's applaud only got higher and higher. The elite line-up included Sahil Silwal, Rohit Yadav, Martin Konecny, Thomas Rohler, Yash Vir Singh, Julius Yego, Sachin Yadav, Rumesh Pathirage, Cyprian Mrzyglod, Luiz Mauricio Da Silva, Curtis Thompson and Neeraj Chopra. Earlier in the evening, outside the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium in Bengaluru, the wind carried both a breeze and a buzz. Young fans lined up early, eyes wide with anticipation, waiting to catch a glimpse of their javelin heroes. Neeraj Chopra’s jerseys were flying off the stalls like hot cakes, the tricolour fluttered proudly in many little hands, and chants of "Neeraj! Neeraj! Neeraj!" were already starting to rise. Local dance and music troops brought the stage alive with energetic performances, turning the entry gates into mini-festivals. The atmosphere in Bengaluru felt different — electric yet grounded, festive yet reverent. It wasn’t just children who were excited; entire families had shown up and teenagers with face paint. It was as if the city had paused its usual rhythm to come together for a sporting celebration. Inside the stadium, it was no different. The stands were a sea of blue and saffron. Kids stood up on their seats, proudly waving the Indian flag. And when Neeraj Chopra stepped onto the field, time seemed to hold its breath — until, all at once, the silence cracked open into a thunderous roar. The name echoed again and again: Neeraj. Neeraj. Neeraj. This wasn’t just sport. This was emotion. This was India showing up for one of its own.

Neeraj Chopra entered the field with a standing ovation from the crowd and thunderous round of applause, one which reverberated around the city of Bengaluru

It began with a simple and a random tweet. A simple, heartfelt plea from Ranjith Ravichandran, ana vid sports fan from Coimbatore: If anyone sponsor me 2000 rupees, I can go to watch this from Coimbatore.” He was talking about the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 — India’s first global javelin competition, a dream that finally found shape in 2025.&nbsp;He didn’t expect a reply. Let alone from the man himself. But hours later, his phone buzzed with a flurry of notifications. Neeraj Chopra, two-time Olympic medalist and reigning world champion, had quote-tweeted him. Not just acknowledged him — invited him. He had posted saying, “Hi, Ranjith. You've got a full VVIP experience waiting for you in Bengaluru because your trip to the @nc_classic is on me! And thanks to @RadissonHotels, you'll be staying about 90 metres away from me. See you soon!”&nbsp;In that moment, Ranjith wasn’t just a fan. He was seen. “I thought it was fake,” he laughed while talking to WION exclusively. “I had to check twice if it was the real account.” The disbelief lingered even when someone from JSW Sports called to coordinate logistics. “Until that call, I thought this couldn’t be happening.” But it was.<h2>See the viral tweet below</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hi, Ranjith. You&#39;ve got a full VVIP experience waiting for you in Bengaluru because your trip to the <a href="https://twitter.com/nc_classic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nc_classic</a> is on me! 😊 And thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/RadissonHotels?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RadissonHotels</a>, you&#39;ll be staying about 90 metres away from me. See you soon! 😉 <a href="https://t.co/aQvkNEnLry">https://t.co/aQvkNEnLry</a>&mdash; Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1/status/1938524754908172488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

What makes this story more than a feel-good viral moment is the depth of Ranjith’s fandom. His journey as a sports lover goes back over 18 years — tracking Olympic disciplines, following Indian athletes, and even competing himself during his college days.&nbsp;He ran the 1500m when he was in college. He also played hockey. He was in the NCC. His life wasn’t defined by headlines, but by consistent, quiet dedication to Indian sport. And then came 2016 — the year a teenager from India shattered the junior javelin world record.&nbsp;“I still remember seeing the name Neeraj Chopra on the World Athletics website. An Indian holding a world record — that gave me goosebumps,” Ranjith said.&nbsp;That record still stands. So does Ranjith’s awe. “I’ve followed him ever since. Every tournament. From Commonwealth Games and Asian Games to the Diamond League and Tokyo Olympics and Paris Olympics. Whatever the time zone — even 2:30 am — I stay up.”&nbsp;When Neeraj made history at the Tokyo Olympics, Ranjith was on a post-COVID trip with friends. But even there, sport came first. “I dragged everyone to watch the final. We were watching casually at first, but once the final three throws started, nobody moved. I explained the rules to them — who throws first, what matters — everything. When he won, we were all screaming. I’ll never forget that moment.”&nbsp;Now, he’s about to make another unforgettable memory — seeing Neeraj Chopra in person.&nbsp;There are sporting legends. And then there are icons who make you feel seen. Neeraj Chopra didn’t just achieve greatness. He carried his fans along for the journey. And this response to Ranjith’s tweet wasn’t a PR stunt. It was a reflection of how deeply he values his supporters.&nbsp;“Not everyone replies to a random fan. But he did,” Ranjith says. “It means the world.” For a man who’s followed Neeraj across time zones, from juniors to Olympic gold, this isn’t just about meeting a celebrity. It’s about finally closing the circle — from being a fan behind the screen to standing beside the man who lit the spark.&nbsp;The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is more than an athletics meet. It’s a symbol. For the first time, India is hosting a global javelin event named after one of its own. And it’s being broadcast live, in the Indian time zone. For fans like Ranjith, that matters.&nbsp;“You don’t have to wait till midnight anymore. You can go to the stadium. You can feel it. For the next Neeraj, this is huge,” he says. “I hope some boy in Bangalore sees it and says — I want to be that.”&nbsp;When asked if meeting Neeraj Chopra will be his top memory, Ranjith doesn’t hesitate. “No doubt. I’ve had many moments. But this? This will stay with me forever.”&nbsp;From quietly following middle-distance races in college to jumping with joy in a hotel room during Tokyo, to now getting a personal invitation from India’s greatest-ever athlete — this is the kind of fan story that reminds you why sport matters. Because sometimes, one tweet, one throw, one reply — can change a life.

The tweet that changed everything: How Neeraj Chopra made one fan’s wish a reality

It began with a simple and a random tweet. A simple, heartfelt plea from Ranjith Ravichandran, ana vid sports fan from Coimbatore: If anyone sponsor me 2000 rupees, I can go to watch this from Coimbatore.” He was talking about the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 — India’s first global javelin competition, a dream that finally found shape in 2025. He didn’t expect a reply. Let alone from the man himself. But hours later, his phone buzzed with a flurry of notifications. Neeraj Chopra, two-time Olympic medalist and reigning world champion, had quote-tweeted him. Not just acknowledged him — invited him. He had posted saying, “Hi, Ranjith. You've got a full VVIP experience waiting for you in Bengaluru because your trip to the @nc_classic is on me! And thanks to @RadissonHotels, you'll be staying about 90 metres away from me. See you soon!” In that moment, Ranjith wasn’t just a fan. He was seen. “I thought it was fake,” he laughed while talking to WION exclusively. “I had to check twice if it was the real account.” The disbelief lingered even when someone from JSW Sports called to coordinate logistics. “Until that call, I thought this couldn’t be happening.” But it was. See the viral tweet below

Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, co-organised by two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and JSW Sports, and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India, marks a major leap forward for Indian athletics

As Bengaluru braces itself for the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, one of the most influential voices in Indian and global athletics is quietly confident—and deeply proud. Adille Sumariwalla, the vice-president of World Athletics and former president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), spoke to WION exclusively ahead of the event about what this means for the country, what’s to come, and why India’s athletic revolution is just getting started.&nbsp;“This is going to be a great event,” Sumariwalla said. “It’s a great start for India and for Indian sport. Neeraj deserves an event in his name—he’s not just one of the greatest, he is the greatest athlete India has ever produced, both pre and post-Independence.”&nbsp;For Sumariwalla, the Neeraj Chopra Classic is more than just a landmark meet—it’s a symbol of the long game India has been playing in athletics. “What you see today is not by chance,” he said. “Wherever Indian athletics has reached today is because of our vision, our strategic planning. We’ve only just begun. In five years, you’ll really see the results," he added.&nbsp;He points to a carefully structured two-pronged approach—targeting both grassroots and elite levels—as the key driver behind India’s recent sporting rise. “We run one of the largest grassroots program in the world. That’s where Neeraj, Dutee, and 90% of our top talent have come from. It’s all part of the plan.”&nbsp;According to him, the AFI has already built a domestic calendar featuring over 30 national-level events and has started to seed future stars through a robust talent identification pipeline. “We’ve laid the foundation. The real outcome—the medals, the domination—will come in the next three to five years.”<h2>India to bid for World Championships in 2029 and 2031</h2>So what’s next? Hosting the World Championships. “Yes, we are going to bid,” Sumariwalla confirmed. “We’ll bid for the World Athletics Championships in 2029 and 2031. We’ve already expressed our interest in the World Relays, the World Juniors, and the World Indoors. There’s a lot on the plate.”&nbsp;He also offered a grounded take on rising Indian javelin thrower Sachin Yadav, who many have tipped as the next big thing. “We put so much pressure on young athletes, and that kills them,” he said. “Let’s not do that. Sachin is a promising talent, and we’re working with him step by step. We’ve brought in a foreign coach who’s a former world champion himself. Let’s focus on the journey, not just the result. If the journey is good, the results will follow.”&nbsp;As for the elite line-up at the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, Sumariwalla couldn’t hide his excitement. “It’s an excellent event. I’m dying to go to the ground, sit there, and just enjoy myself for two hours.”&nbsp;From strategic blueprints to elite showdowns, the Neeraj Chopra Classic is already writing a new chapter in Indian athletics. And if Sumariwalla’s vision stays on track, it might just be the beginning of India’s golden era in track and field.

Exclusive Neeraj is the greatest athlete He deserve it says World Athletics vice president Adille Sumariwalla on NC Classic 2025

As Bengaluru braces itself for the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, one of the most influential voices in Indian and global athletics is quietly confident—and deeply proud. Adille Sumariwalla, the vice-president of World Athletics and former president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), spoke to WION exclusively ahead of the event about what this means for the country, what’s to come, and why India’s athletic revolution is just getting started. “This is going to be a great event,” Sumariwalla said. “It’s a great start for India and for Indian sport. Neeraj deserves an event in his name—he’s not just one of the greatest, he is the greatest athlete India has ever produced, both pre and post-Independence.” For Sumariwalla, the Neeraj Chopra Classic is more than just a landmark meet—it’s a symbol of the long game India has been playing in athletics. “What you see today is not by chance,” he said. “Wherever Indian athletics has reached today is because of our vision, our strategic planning. We’ve only just begun. In five years, you’ll really see the results," he added. He points to a carefully structured two-pronged approach—targeting both grassroots and elite levels—as the key driver behind India’s recent sporting rise. “We run one of the largest grassroots program in the world. That’s where Neeraj, Dutee, and 90% of our top talent have come from. It’s all part of the plan.” According to him, the AFI has already built a domestic calendar featuring over 30 national-level events and has started to seed future stars through a robust talent identification pipeline. “We’ve laid the foundation. The real outcome—the medals, the domination—will come in the next three to five years.” India to bid for World Championships in 2029 and 2031 So what’s next? Hosting the World Championships. “Yes, we are going to bid,” Sumariwalla confirmed. “We’ll bid for the World Athletics Championships in 2029 and 2031. We’ve already expressed our interest in the World Relays, the World Juniors, and the World Indoors. There’s a lot on the plate.” He also offered a grounded take on rising Indian javelin thrower Sachin Yadav, who many have tipped as the next big thing. “We put so much pressure on young athletes, and that kills them,” he said. “Let’s not do that. Sachin is a promising talent, and we’re working with him step by step. We’ve brought in a foreign coach who’s a former world champion himself. Let’s focus on the journey, not just the result. If the journey is good, the results will follow.” As for the elite line-up at the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, Sumariwalla couldn’t hide his excitement. “It’s an excellent event. I’m dying to go to the ground, sit there, and just enjoy myself for two hours.” From strategic blueprints to elite showdowns, the Neeraj Chopra Classic is already writing a new chapter in Indian athletics. And if Sumariwalla’s vision stays on track, it might just be the beginning of India’s golden era in track and field.

Sumariwalla also confirmed that India is going to bid for the World Championships in 2029 and 2031

Exclusive: 'Neeraj is the greatest athlete. He deserve it', says World Athletics vice-president Adille Sumariwalla on NC Classic 2025

Thomas Rohler is no stranger to pain. The German javelin thrower, who won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has spent years chasing, achieving, and recovering from the sport’s most elusive number — 90 metres. Now in Bengaluru to take part in the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, Rohler brings with him not just medals and technique, but a grounded, honest perspective about what it really takes to hit that mark — and why the world often misunderstands it.&nbsp;Rohler reflected on the toll a 90m throw takes on the body and the mind. "Any 90m throw has a huge impact on the body," he said while talking to WION. “Once you throw 90m, the next thing you’re going to do is rest. Because the impact is high.” It’s not a dramatic exaggeration."&nbsp;Rohler explains that the force exerted during the final block phase of the throw is equivalent to having the weight of a small car—roughly a ton—on the block foot. “People need to understand… this is not yoga,” he said with a mix of sarcasm and seriousness. “It’s really tough.”&nbsp;It’s an apt description of a sport that often looks graceful but is, at its core, a controlled act of violence. The thrower must sprint with speed, position their leg with precision, and unleash energy through their body in a split second—all while avoiding injury. Rohler, like many in the sport, has battled injuries and setbacks throughout his career. But the physical toll is only one part of the equation.&nbsp;What happens after a 90m throw, he suggests, is just as taxing. “Doing it again and again is a mental challenge,” he explained. “It’s about dealing with the pressure from the outside.” Once an athlete breaks the 90m barrier, expectations grow. The 33-year-old, with a smile, admits even he fell into that trap. “I also did it very often. We all mess up with the expectations.”&nbsp;The German further went on to talk how perceptions have shifted in recent years. “We need to look back to 2012 London Olympics. You won the Olympic Games with a 84m throw” Rohler recalled. “Now people expect you to throw 90m. If you don’t do it, people ask, ‘Was it a bad day?’” His frustration isn’t with ambition, but with unrealistic expectations—especially from those who may not understand just how rare and magical a 90m throw is.&nbsp;And rare it is. In the long history of the sport, only a small handful of men have ever thrown beyond 90m. Rohler compares it to the very top tier of cricketers. “If you look at a cricket team, all these top players… if we talk about the top-top-top players, it’s the same like comparing to 90m of javelin,” he said. “It’s still magical.”&nbsp;For the German, that magic is what the sport needs to hold on to. The number itself shouldn’t become routine or expected. “There’s only a few moments in life you get the chance to achieve it as an athlete,” he said. “But also to see it as a spectator.”&nbsp;As the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is set to take place in Bengaluru on July 5, Thomas Rohler's presence is a reminder that even in a sport driven by distance, wisdom still carries the farthest. And if he’s teaching anything this week, it’s that chasing greatness is never effortless, and never should be taken for granted.

WION Exclusive Its magical but it hurts Rio Olympics gold medalist Thomas Rohler on living the 90m life

Thomas Rohler is no stranger to pain. The German javelin thrower, who won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has spent years chasing, achieving, and recovering from the sport’s most elusive number — 90 metres. Now in Bengaluru to take part in the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, Rohler brings with him not just medals and technique, but a grounded, honest perspective about what it really takes to hit that mark — and why the world often misunderstands it. Rohler reflected on the toll a 90m throw takes on the body and the mind. "Any 90m throw has a huge impact on the body," he said while talking to WION. “Once you throw 90m, the next thing you’re going to do is rest. Because the impact is high.” It’s not a dramatic exaggeration." Rohler explains that the force exerted during the final block phase of the throw is equivalent to having the weight of a small car—roughly a ton—on the block foot. “People need to understand… this is not yoga,” he said with a mix of sarcasm and seriousness. “It’s really tough.” It’s an apt description of a sport that often looks graceful but is, at its core, a controlled act of violence. The thrower must sprint with speed, position their leg with precision, and unleash energy through their body in a split second—all while avoiding injury. Rohler, like many in the sport, has battled injuries and setbacks throughout his career. But the physical toll is only one part of the equation. What happens after a 90m throw, he suggests, is just as taxing. “Doing it again and again is a mental challenge,” he explained. “It’s about dealing with the pressure from the outside.” Once an athlete breaks the 90m barrier, expectations grow. The 33-year-old, with a smile, admits even he fell into that trap. “I also did it very often. We all mess up with the expectations.” The German further went on to talk how perceptions have shifted in recent years. “We need to look back to 2012 London Olympics. You won the Olympic Games with a 84m throw” Rohler recalled. “Now people expect you to throw 90m. If you don’t do it, people ask, ‘Was it a bad day?’” His frustration isn’t with ambition, but with unrealistic expectations—especially from those who may not understand just how rare and magical a 90m throw is. And rare it is. In the long history of the sport, only a small handful of men have ever thrown beyond 90m. Rohler compares it to the very top tier of cricketers. “If you look at a cricket team, all these top players… if we talk about the top-top-top players, it’s the same like comparing to 90m of javelin,” he said. “It’s still magical.” For the German, that magic is what the sport needs to hold on to. The number itself shouldn’t become routine or expected. “There’s only a few moments in life you get the chance to achieve it as an athlete,” he said. “But also to see it as a spectator.” As the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is set to take place in Bengaluru on July 5, Thomas Rohler's presence is a reminder that even in a sport driven by distance, wisdom still carries the farthest. And if he’s teaching anything this week, it’s that chasing greatness is never effortless, and never should be taken for granted.

WION Exclusive | It’s magical, but it hurts': Rio Olympics gold medalist Thomas Rohler on living the 90m life

As Bengaluru gears up for the much-awaited Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, 2016 Rio Olympics silver medalist javelin thrower Julius Yego in an exclusive chat with WION offered candid insights into the grueling demands of the sport, the evolving competition, and what makes India’s Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra special.&nbsp;When asked about breaching the elusive 90m mark, Yego didn’t romanticise it.He said, “You can never prepare yourself to throw over 90m. It just comes by itself,” he said. “And when it comes, the most difficult part is to maintain it," he added.&nbsp;He recalled how his first 90m throw in 2015 during the 15th IAAF World Championships, National Stadium, Beijing, left his body in shock. “I was struggling to throw even 80m afterwards. Luckily, if you’re not injured, it can come back. But it takes a lot out of the body — physically and in ways you don’t even understand.”&nbsp;Yego pointed to rare examples of consistency, citing Czech Republic's Jan Zelezny and Germany's Johannes Vetter. “Even Vetter has struggled. It shows how tough it is on the body. You’re lucky if you stay injury-free.”&nbsp;With Neeraj Chopra recently joining the elite 90m club, Yego believes global javelin has entered a new phase. “Earlier, it was mostly Eastern Europe. Now it’s India, Africa, the Caribbean, everywhere,” he said. “I believe to win a World Championship or Olympic gold now, you’ll have to throw over 90m. The level has really grown.”&nbsp;On what makes two-time Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra really special, Yego was full of praise. He said, “His flexibility and speed are his biggest assets. If he keeps those strong, he’ll do well for a long time. He’s a super-talented athlete. You just have to accept that.” As for what makes a 90m throw possible — technique or power — Yego was quick to clarify. He replied, “It’s everything. Technique plays a bigger role, but it has to be combined with power, speed, and a very strong mental state. You can’t plan a 90m throw. You get on the runway with good technique — the distance comes on its own.”

Exclusive You cant prepare to throw 90m It just happens says 2016 Olympics silver medalist Julius Yego

As Bengaluru gears up for the much-awaited Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, 2016 Rio Olympics silver medalist javelin thrower Julius Yego in an exclusive chat with WION offered candid insights into the grueling demands of the sport, the evolving competition, and what makes India’s Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra special. When asked about breaching the elusive 90m mark, Yego didn’t romanticise it.He said, “You can never prepare yourself to throw over 90m. It just comes by itself,” he said. “And when it comes, the most difficult part is to maintain it," he added. He recalled how his first 90m throw in 2015 during the 15th IAAF World Championships, National Stadium, Beijing, left his body in shock. “I was struggling to throw even 80m afterwards. Luckily, if you’re not injured, it can come back. But it takes a lot out of the body — physically and in ways you don’t even understand.” Yego pointed to rare examples of consistency, citing Czech Republic's Jan Zelezny and Germany's Johannes Vetter. “Even Vetter has struggled. It shows how tough it is on the body. You’re lucky if you stay injury-free.” With Neeraj Chopra recently joining the elite 90m club, Yego believes global javelin has entered a new phase. “Earlier, it was mostly Eastern Europe. Now it’s India, Africa, the Caribbean, everywhere,” he said. “I believe to win a World Championship or Olympic gold now, you’ll have to throw over 90m. The level has really grown.” On what makes two-time Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra really special, Yego was full of praise. He said, “His flexibility and speed are his biggest assets. If he keeps those strong, he’ll do well for a long time. He’s a super-talented athlete. You just have to accept that.” As for what makes a 90m throw possible — technique or power — Yego was quick to clarify. He replied, “It’s everything. Technique plays a bigger role, but it has to be combined with power, speed, and a very strong mental state. You can’t plan a 90m throw. You get on the runway with good technique — the distance comes on its own.”

This historic event, co-organised by two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and JSW Sports, and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India, marks a major leap forward for Indian athletics

Exclusive: 'You can’t prepare to throw 90m. It just happens, says 2016 Olympics silver medalist Julius Yego

In a defining milestone for Indian sports, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, the country’s first-ever international javelin competition, is all set to unfold at Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday (July 5). This historic event, co-organised by two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and JSW Sports, and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India, marks a major leap forward for Indian athletics.&nbsp;With the prestigious World Athletics Gold level status, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 will not only showcase top global talent but also place India on the international athletics map. Honoring the remarkable achievement of Neeraj Chopra, whose golden journey continues to inspire millions, the landmark event is a celebration of a movement that shapes the future of Indian sport.<h2>Here’s everything you need to know about the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic:</h2>About the tournament: Co-organised by JSW Sports and Olympics gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, the competition is sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India. Uniting world champions, Olympic medalists and elite throwers from across the globe, this World Athletics Gold level event aims to elevate the standards of track and field in India.&nbsp;Date: July 5, 2025Time: 7pm ISTVenue: Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru<h2>Where to buy tickets?</h2>Ticket are available on District By Zomato with prices ranging from INR 299 to INR 9,999, ensuring accessibility for all fans. Link to buy tickets: <a href="https://www.district.in/events/neeraj-chopra-classic-2025-may24-2025-buy-tickets">https://www.district.in/events/neeraj-chopra-classic-2025-may24-2025-buy-tickets</a><h2>Where to watch?</h2>TV: Star Sports 1 Hindi and Star Sports 2&nbsp;OTT platform: JioHotstar &nbsp;<h2>List of participants:</h2><h2>International contingent:</h2><ul><li>Thomas Rohler (Germany): Germany’s Thomas Rohler is 2016 Olympics champion and one of the sport’s all-time greats. His personal best is 93.90m.</li><li>Julius Yego (Kenya): The Kenyan athlete Yego, who is a 2015 World champion and 2016 Olympic silver medallist, has been trailblazing javelin’s rise in Africa. His personal best is 92.72m.</li><li>Curtis Thompson (USA): Curtis Thompson is top-ranked American javelin thrower, Pan American Games champion (2023) and a consistent performer on the Diamond League circuit with a personal best of 87.76m.</li><li>Martin Konecny (Czech Republic): Martin Konecny is a 27-year-old javelin thrower from the Czech Republic. He has established himself as a competitive athlete in the javelin, with his personal best record being 80.59 meters, achieved in 2025. Konecny has participated in various international competitions, including the European Athletics Championships where he qualified for the final in 2022, finishing in 12th place. He is a notable figure in Czech javelin throwing and has been consistently among the top performers in his country.</li><li>Luiz Mauricio Da Silva (Brazil): A South American powerhouse with multiple podium finishes at the South American Athletics Championships across various age categories. His personal best is 86.62m.</li><li>Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka): A rising star from the subcontinent, Pathirage recently set a new national record and claimed gold at the Asian Throwing Championships last year. His personal best is 85.45m.</li><li>Cyprian Mrzygłod (Poland): The 27-year-old Polish athlete, Cyprian is European U23 champion, winning the gold medal in 2019. &nbsp;His personal best is 85.92 metres set in Kuortane this year.</li></ul><h2>Indian contingent:</h2><ul><li>Neeraj Chopra: Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has already etched his name in the history books by becoming the first track and field athlete from the country to win an Olympics gold medal. He is also a world champion - India’s first-ever in senior athletics - and a Diamond League winner, also a first by any Indian. His personal best is 90.23m.</li><li>Sachin Yadav: Sachin25, holds a personal best of 85.16m. The Asian Championships silver medallist recently secured gold medals at both Federation Cup and the National Games this year.</li><li>Rohit Yadav: The 24-year-old Rohit, with a personal best of 83.40m achieved in 2023, underwent surgery that year and returned to competition subsequently. He claimed silver medal at the National Games 2025 with 80.47m.</li><li>Sahil Silwal: Sahil, 24, represents another promising talent in the 80m category, holding a personal best of 81.81m from his gold-winning performance at last year’s National Inter-State Championships. He secured third position at the Federation Cup with a 77.84m throw. He won the gold medal at the Winckelmann Games 2024 athletics meet in Germany with a 75.36m throw.</li><li>Yashvir Singh: Yashvir Singh has a personal best of 82.57m, which came at the 2025 Asian Championships in Gumi, Korea. Yashvir first came into limelight when he rewrote Neeraj Chopra’s U- 20 Fed Cup meet record in 2021 with a 78.68m throw.</li></ul>

Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025: All you need to know about India’s first-ever international javelin tournament

In a defining milestone for Indian sports, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, the country’s first-ever international javelin competition, is all set to unfold at Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday (July 5). This historic event, co-organised by two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and JSW Sports, and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India, marks a major leap forward for Indian athletics. With the prestigious World Athletics Gold level status, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 will not only showcase top global talent but also place India on the international athletics map. Honoring the remarkable achievement of Neeraj Chopra, whose golden journey continues to inspire millions, the landmark event is a celebration of a movement that shapes the future of Indian sport. Here’s everything you need to know about the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic: About the tournament: Co-organised by JSW Sports and Olympics gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, the competition is sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India. Uniting world champions, Olympic medalists and elite throwers from across the globe, this World Athletics Gold level event aims to elevate the standards of track and field in India. Date: July 5, 2025 Time: 7pm IST Venue: Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru Where to buy tickets? Ticket are available on District By Zomato with prices ranging from INR 299 to INR 9,999, ensuring accessibility for all fans. Link to buy tickets: https://www.district.in/events/neeraj-chopra-classic-2025-may24-2025-buy-tickets Where to watch? TV: Star Sports 1 Hindi and Star Sports 2 OTT platform: JioHotstar List of participants: International contingent: Thomas Rohler (Germany): Germany’s Thomas Rohler is 2016 Olympics champion and one of the sport’s all-time greats. His personal best is 93.90m. Julius Yego (Kenya): The Kenyan athlete Yego, who is a 2015 World champion and 2016 Olympic silver medallist, has been trailblazing javelin’s rise in Africa. His personal best is 92.72m. Curtis Thompson (USA): Curtis Thompson is top-ranked American javelin thrower, Pan American Games champion (2023) and a consistent performer on the Diamond League circuit with a personal best of 87.76m. Martin Konecny (Czech Republic): Martin Konecny is a 27-year-old javelin thrower from the Czech Republic. He has established himself as a competitive athlete in the javelin, with his personal best record being 80.59 meters, achieved in 2025. Konecny has participated in various international competitions, including the European Athletics Championships where he qualified for the final in 2022, finishing in 12th place. He is a notable figure in Czech javelin throwing and has been consistently among the top performers in his country. Luiz Mauricio Da Silva (Brazil): A South American powerhouse with multiple podium finishes at the South American Athletics Championships across various age categories. His personal best is 86.62m. Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka): A rising star from the subcontinent, Pathirage recently set a new national record and claimed gold at the Asian Throwing Championships last year. His personal best is 85.45m. Cyprian Mrzygłod (Poland): The 27-year-old Polish athlete, Cyprian is European U23 champion, winning the gold medal in 2019. His personal best is 85.92 metres set in Kuortane this year. Indian contingent: Neeraj Chopra: Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has already etched his name in the history books by becoming the first track and field athlete from the country to win an Olympics gold medal. He is also a world champion - India’s first-ever in senior athletics - and a Diamond League winner, also a first by any Indian. His personal best is 90.23m. Sachin Yadav: Sachin25, holds a personal best of 85.16m. The Asian Championships silver medallist recently secured gold medals at both Federation Cup and the National Games this year. Rohit Yadav: The 24-year-old Rohit, with a personal best of 83.40m achieved in 2023, underwent surgery that year and returned to competition subsequently. He claimed silver medal at the National Games 2025 with 80.47m. Sahil Silwal: Sahil, 24, represents another promising talent in the 80m category, holding a personal best of 81.81m from his gold-winning performance at last year’s National Inter-State Championships. He secured third position at the Federation Cup with a 77.84m throw. He won the gold medal at the Winckelmann Games 2024 athletics meet in Germany with a 75.36m throw. Yashvir Singh: Yashvir Singh has a personal best of 82.57m, which came at the 2025 Asian Championships in Gumi, Korea. Yashvir first came into limelight when he rewrote Neeraj Chopra’s U- 20 Fed Cup meet record in 2021 with a 78.68m throw.

Bengaluru has always known how to wear a mood — monsoon mornings draped in mist, tech-humming afternoons wrapped in haste, and cricket nights lit with noise and neon. But on Thursday (July 3), the city felt quieter, more focused. Almost reverent. As if it knows that history is inching closer — not on a cricket pitch, but in the Kanteerava stadium.&nbsp;As one makes way towards the stadium, they can see giant posters of Neeraj Chopra lined the route, his golden arm mid-flight on every hoarding, reminding you why Saturday (July 5) matters.&nbsp;Outside the venue, the hum of anticipation was hard to miss. But it was what one sees inside that really sets the tone. A group of young kids — barely teenagers — were practicing their throws with makeshift javelins, mimicking their idol’s technique with wide-eyed intensity. No coaches giving them orders. Just pure passion. Just Neeraj-inspired dreams in motion. The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, organised by JSW, &nbsp;is still two days away, but the anticipation is already woven into Bengaluru's rhythm.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inside the stadium, time seemed to move differently. The usual chaos of a city afternoon gave way to a focused hush, as if the wind itself was watching. The sky had turned a mild grey, with clouds gathering like quiet spectators above, and a soft breeze kept sweeping through the Kanteerava, lifting dust and dreams alike. On the field, finest athletes were putting in the final touches to their preparations — not just for another meet, but for the kind of event that could shape memories, inspire futures, and maybe even rewrite records.&nbsp;At the center of it all was Neeraj Chopra — two-time Olympic champion, world champion, and the man who has redefined what it means to be a field athlete in India. Clad in his training gear, his golden arm flexed and focused, Neeraj moved with an ease that only years of pressure and performance can carve.&nbsp;&nbsp;There was no fanfare, no dramatic music. Just the sound of spikes gripping track, breath being held before a throw, and the clean slicing of javelin through wind. Every now and then, he’d pause, hands on hips, eyes on the horizon. Measuring not just the distance of his next throw, but perhaps the weight of the expectations he now carries. Yet he looked unbothered, even serene. This was his zone. His stage. And though Saturday will bring the crowd, the noise, the flashbulbs, this quiet Thursday afternoon felt just as significant. It felt sacred.&nbsp;In the stands, a few dozen people had gathered — lovers of sport. And children. Lots of them. Small kids with school bags still slung over shoulders. Some in sports uniforms, others in casuals. All of them wearing that wide-eyed look of wonder that only live sport can ignite. They weren’t being noisy or asking for selfies. They sat in scattered clusters, watching intently as the athletes went through their drills.&nbsp;This was more than just training. Neeraj didn’t have to say a word. His focus, his craft, his very being in that space — it was enough to light something in these kids that may stay with them long.&nbsp;The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is scheduled for July 5, but the city’s heart has already begun to beat in sync with it. You can feel it in the air, in the hushed reverence of the stadium, in the unspoken promise hanging in the breeze — that something remarkable is coming. Something worth pausing for. Something worth remembering.

Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025: Bengaluru gears up as javelin stars assemble

Bengaluru has always known how to wear a mood — monsoon mornings draped in mist, tech-humming afternoons wrapped in haste, and cricket nights lit with noise and neon. But on Thursday (July 3), the city felt quieter, more focused. Almost reverent. As if it knows that history is inching closer — not on a cricket pitch, but in the Kanteerava stadium. As one makes way towards the stadium, they can see giant posters of Neeraj Chopra lined the route, his golden arm mid-flight on every hoarding, reminding you why Saturday (July 5) matters. Outside the venue, the hum of anticipation was hard to miss. But it was what one sees inside that really sets the tone. A group of young kids — barely teenagers — were practicing their throws with makeshift javelins, mimicking their idol’s technique with wide-eyed intensity. No coaches giving them orders. Just pure passion. Just Neeraj-inspired dreams in motion. The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, organised by JSW, is still two days away, but the anticipation is already woven into Bengaluru's rhythm. Inside the stadium, time seemed to move differently. The usual chaos of a city afternoon gave way to a focused hush, as if the wind itself was watching. The sky had turned a mild grey, with clouds gathering like quiet spectators above, and a soft breeze kept sweeping through the Kanteerava, lifting dust and dreams alike. On the field, finest athletes were putting in the final touches to their preparations — not just for another meet, but for the kind of event that could shape memories, inspire futures, and maybe even rewrite records. At the center of it all was Neeraj Chopra — two-time Olympic champion, world champion, and the man who has redefined what it means to be a field athlete in India. Clad in his training gear, his golden arm flexed and focused, Neeraj moved with an ease that only years of pressure and performance can carve. There was no fanfare, no dramatic music. Just the sound of spikes gripping track, breath being held before a throw, and the clean slicing of javelin through wind. Every now and then, he’d pause, hands on hips, eyes on the horizon. Measuring not just the distance of his next throw, but perhaps the weight of the expectations he now carries. Yet he looked unbothered, even serene. This was his zone. His stage. And though Saturday will bring the crowd, the noise, the flashbulbs, this quiet Thursday afternoon felt just as significant. It felt sacred. In the stands, a few dozen people had gathered — lovers of sport. And children. Lots of them. Small kids with school bags still slung over shoulders. Some in sports uniforms, others in casuals. All of them wearing that wide-eyed look of wonder that only live sport can ignite. They weren’t being noisy or asking for selfies. They sat in scattered clusters, watching intently as the athletes went through their drills. This was more than just training. Neeraj didn’t have to say a word. His focus, his craft, his very being in that space — it was enough to light something in these kids that may stay with them long. The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is scheduled for July 5, but the city’s heart has already begun to beat in sync with it. You can feel it in the air, in the hushed reverence of the stadium, in the unspoken promise hanging in the breeze — that something remarkable is coming. Something worth pausing for. Something worth remembering.

Headlined by two-time Olympic medallist, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 event will see elite male javelin throwers from around the world compete in India for the first time

India’s javelin landscape has seen a phenomenal growth in the past few years, producing top-notch athletes and inspiring comebacks. One of the most compelling stories in this evolution is that of Rohit Yadav — a talented thrower who has battled physical setbacks, self-doubt, and the demands of elite competition to fight his way back into the national spotlight. Rohit Yadav spoke exclusively with WION prior to the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, organised by JSW.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rohit opened up on his nagging elbow injury, the uncertain path to recovery, the support system that kept him going, and his ambition to breach the 80-meter mark once again. “It was very difficult for me. I didn’t know what would happen,” Rohit said. “I thought there was only a 50% chance of making a comeback. Very few people manage to return after such injuries.” But Rohit was determined to be one of those few.&nbsp;With help from JSW, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and the Athletics Federation of India, Rohit began his rehabilitation journey. Five months of intense physiotherapy gave him a chance to return — and nine months after surgery, he was back in competition. “In my first season back, I didn’t feel any pain. That year, I touched 80 meters and felt confident again.”&nbsp;His personal best remains 83.40m, achieved in his prime. The dream now is to reclaim that form — and perhaps even surpass it. However, the road hasn’t been linear. Just days before a competition in Mumbai, Rohit overstretched his elbow in training. The pain returned, and rehab had to be started yet again. “At times, it felt like everything was fine. But it wasn’t. Sometimes the elbow gets tight. Sometimes there’s pain again. Still, I played the next competition. But I had to stop midway.”&nbsp;Now back in rehab, Rohit is cautious but focused. With coach Parveer, he’s targeting the World Championships and the interstate-nationals this season. “The goal is to cross the 80-meter mark again. If we do that, we’ll be happy. That’s our focus now — to build steadily.”&nbsp;With javelin throwing growing rapidly in India — thanks in no small part to Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra — the level of domestic competition has risen sharply. Rohit sees this as both a challenge and a gift. “When competition increases, you push yourself. But only when you’re fit. If you’re in rehab, you try your best — but it’s different. You’re giving 100 percent in physio, in training. But throwing competitively is another level.”&nbsp;As someone who once pushed the boundaries of Indian javelin, Rohit is now pushing himself again — this time in a new context, as both a comeback story and a symbol of perseverance. And nothing exemplifies that more than the opportunity to throw at home in the Neeraj Chopra Classic.&nbsp;“It’s such a big event. Neeraj’s name is attached to it. He’s the best in the world — and we’re playing in a competition hosted here in India. That feels special.” For Rohit, the presence of global athletes on Indian soil adds a layer of motivation. “People from around the world are coming. That motivates us. We’ll try to give our best.”&nbsp;From rehab tables to the runway, from setbacks to second chances — Rohit Yadav’s comeback isn’t just about distances. It’s about belief, rebuilding, and representing India with pride.

WION Exclusive Rohit Yadavs second innings Pain perseverance and the pursuit of 80m

India’s javelin landscape has seen a phenomenal growth in the past few years, producing top-notch athletes and inspiring comebacks. One of the most compelling stories in this evolution is that of Rohit Yadav — a talented thrower who has battled physical setbacks, self-doubt, and the demands of elite competition to fight his way back into the national spotlight. Rohit Yadav spoke exclusively with WION prior to the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, organised by JSW. Rohit opened up on his nagging elbow injury, the uncertain path to recovery, the support system that kept him going, and his ambition to breach the 80-meter mark once again. “It was very difficult for me. I didn’t know what would happen,” Rohit said. “I thought there was only a 50% chance of making a comeback. Very few people manage to return after such injuries.” But Rohit was determined to be one of those few. With help from JSW, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and the Athletics Federation of India, Rohit began his rehabilitation journey. Five months of intense physiotherapy gave him a chance to return — and nine months after surgery, he was back in competition. “In my first season back, I didn’t feel any pain. That year, I touched 80 meters and felt confident again.” His personal best remains 83.40m, achieved in his prime. The dream now is to reclaim that form — and perhaps even surpass it. However, the road hasn’t been linear. Just days before a competition in Mumbai, Rohit overstretched his elbow in training. The pain returned, and rehab had to be started yet again. “At times, it felt like everything was fine. But it wasn’t. Sometimes the elbow gets tight. Sometimes there’s pain again. Still, I played the next competition. But I had to stop midway.” Now back in rehab, Rohit is cautious but focused. With coach Parveer, he’s targeting the World Championships and the interstate-nationals this season. “The goal is to cross the 80-meter mark again. If we do that, we’ll be happy. That’s our focus now — to build steadily.” With javelin throwing growing rapidly in India — thanks in no small part to Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra — the level of domestic competition has risen sharply. Rohit sees this as both a challenge and a gift. “When competition increases, you push yourself. But only when you’re fit. If you’re in rehab, you try your best — but it’s different. You’re giving 100 percent in physio, in training. But throwing competitively is another level.” As someone who once pushed the boundaries of Indian javelin, Rohit is now pushing himself again — this time in a new context, as both a comeback story and a symbol of perseverance. And nothing exemplifies that more than the opportunity to throw at home in the Neeraj Chopra Classic. “It’s such a big event. Neeraj’s name is attached to it. He’s the best in the world — and we’re playing in a competition hosted here in India. That feels special.” For Rohit, the presence of global athletes on Indian soil adds a layer of motivation. “People from around the world are coming. That motivates us. We’ll try to give our best.” From rehab tables to the runway, from setbacks to second chances — Rohit Yadav’s comeback isn’t just about distances. It’s about belief, rebuilding, and representing India with pride.

Rohit Yadav is set to compete in the upcoming Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 event, to take place in Bengaluru

WION Exclusive | ‘He’s the best in the world’: Rohit Yadav on competing against Neeraj Chopra

Just ahead of the Neeraj Chopra Classic, two-time World Championship gold-medallist javelin thrower Anderson Peters on Tuesday (July 1) pulled out citing ankle injury, dealing another blow to the showpiece event. The 27-year-old Grenada star, who took the bronze medal behind Neeraj at the Paris Olympics last year, has been replaced by Poland's Cyprian Mrzygłód in the event schedule for Saturday (July 6). Mrzygłód is a 2019 European U23 champion and his best throw of 84.97 metres came during the event.&nbsp;“Anderson Peters has been ruled out of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 due to an ankle injury sustained during his last competition,” the organisers said. The current lineup at the Neeraj Chopra Classic now includes only two big international names: Kenya's Julius Yego and Rio 2016 Olympic gold medallist Thomas Rohler from Germany.&nbsp;Earlier, the Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event was rescheduled to take place on July 6 in Bengaluru. The tournament, which was earlier scheduled to take place on May 24, was postponed due to India-Pakistan conflict. The marquee tournament, India's first international javelin throw event, will include 12 athletes including seven from all around the world. The venue of the event, which has been granted category A status by World Athletics, is Kanteevera stadium in Bengaluru. The five Indian athletes including Neeraj Chopra are: Kishore Jena, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav and Sahil Silwal. The seven foreign contestants are: two-time world champion Anderson Peters (PB: 93.07m) of Grenada, 2016 Olympics gold winner Thomas Rohler (PB: 93.90m) of Germany, 2015 world champion Julius Yego (92.72m) of Kenya, American Curtis Thompson (PB: 87.76m), Asian Games bronze medallist Genki Dean (PB: 84.28m) of Japan, Rumesh Pathirage (PB: 85.45m) of Sri Lanka, Luiz Mauricio da Silva (PB: 86.34m) of Brazil. The tournament is approved by Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and has been organized by Neeraj Chopra in association with JSW Sports.

Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025: Two-time World Championship gold-medallist Anderson Peters pulls out from the tournament

Just ahead of the Neeraj Chopra Classic, two-time World Championship gold-medallist javelin thrower Anderson Peters on Tuesday (July 1) pulled out citing ankle injury, dealing another blow to the showpiece event. The 27-year-old Grenada star, who took the bronze medal behind Neeraj at the Paris Olympics last year, has been replaced by Poland's Cyprian Mrzygłód in the event schedule for Saturday (July 6). Mrzygłód is a 2019 European U23 champion and his best throw of 84.97 metres came during the event. “Anderson Peters has been ruled out of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 due to an ankle injury sustained during his last competition,” the organisers said. The current lineup at the Neeraj Chopra Classic now includes only two big international names: Kenya's Julius Yego and Rio 2016 Olympic gold medallist Thomas Rohler from Germany. Earlier, the Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event was rescheduled to take place on July 6 in Bengaluru. The tournament, which was earlier scheduled to take place on May 24, was postponed due to India-Pakistan conflict. The marquee tournament, India's first international javelin throw event, will include 12 athletes including seven from all around the world. The venue of the event, which has been granted category A status by World Athletics, is Kanteevera stadium in Bengaluru. The five Indian athletes including Neeraj Chopra are: Kishore Jena, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav and Sahil Silwal. The seven foreign contestants are: two-time world champion Anderson Peters (PB: 93.07m) of Grenada, 2016 Olympics gold winner Thomas Rohler (PB: 93.90m) of Germany, 2015 world champion Julius Yego (92.72m) of Kenya, American Curtis Thompson (PB: 87.76m), Asian Games bronze medallist Genki Dean (PB: 84.28m) of Japan, Rumesh Pathirage (PB: 85.45m) of Sri Lanka, Luiz Mauricio da Silva (PB: 86.34m) of Brazil. The tournament is approved by Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and has been organized by Neeraj Chopra in association with JSW Sports.

Poland’s Cyprian Mrzyglód has been named as Anderson Peters' replacement in final lineup of the Neeraj Chopra Classic

Two-time Olympic Champion Neeraj Chopra shared his thoughts on the similarities between cricket and javelin. The ace javelin thrower even got a few cricketers in his mind who he believes could make a mark in the javelin world. “I have heard that Brett Lee was a javelin thrower. I think he could throw the javelin well, especially when he was in his peak years. I would like to try javelin with Jasprit Bumrah too, and hope he teaches me some bowling skills. While bowling and javelin are both throws, they are very different. I would like to learn from Bumrah,” he was quoted saying to the digital broadcasters.&nbsp;Meanwhile, former Australia pacer Brett Lee replied to Neeraj's statement. He said, "I did throw the javelin back at my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does &amp; continues to do. Very tough on the elbow. I have however admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well,” he posted on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">😂 I did throw the javelin back at my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does &amp; continues to do. Very tough on the elbow. I have however admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well 🔥 🥇 <a href="https://t.co/fbbpKzd4bj">https://t.co/fbbpKzd4bj</a>&mdash; @BrettLee_58 (@BrettLee_58) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrettLee_58/status/1939725892294467938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

When asked about on which cricketer’s superpower would he love to borrow for the perfect javelin throw, Neeraj was quick in his reply. He said, “Sachin Tendulkar. He represented our country so well for so many years and made so many records for us. The way he faced challenges from many great bowlers and still performed exceptionally — I would want that superpower and try to do the same. It would help me handle challenges that come my way with a calm mindset.”&nbsp;On being superstitious, Neeraj said, “I try to stay calm on the day of my event. I don’t think too much about it. I just focus on giving my 100%. I try to stay relaxed, eat good food, and rest well.” On the best advice he has received, both, on and off the field, he said, “It came from my coach Jan Železný, who also holds the world record in javelin with a throw of 98.48 metres. Whenever I throw, I stay very energetic, but he tells me that I need to run in a flow. It shouldn’t feel tight — I should run like an 18-year-old kid without any tension. I’m slowly understanding the concept of flow. I think that in any sport, flow is very important. For example, Roger Federer — he played with such grace and rhythm that it never seemed like he was putting in too much effort. I’m trying to bring that into my training.”&nbsp;When asked about ion a cricket shot that resembles a javelin throw in terms of power and technique, the 27-year-old replied by saying, “The helicopter shot by MS Dhoni.”

Neeraj Chopra reveals THIS cricketer who could ace javelin Hint Hes not Indian

Two-time Olympic Champion Neeraj Chopra shared his thoughts on the similarities between cricket and javelin. The ace javelin thrower even got a few cricketers in his mind who he believes could make a mark in the javelin world. “I have heard that Brett Lee was a javelin thrower. I think he could throw the javelin well, especially when he was in his peak years. I would like to try javelin with Jasprit Bumrah too, and hope he teaches me some bowling skills. While bowling and javelin are both throws, they are very different. I would like to learn from Bumrah,” he was quoted saying to the digital broadcasters. Meanwhile, former Australia pacer Brett Lee replied to Neeraj's statement. He said, "I did throw the javelin back at my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does & continues to do. Very tough on the elbow. I have however admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well,” he posted on X.

Neeraj Chopra reveals THIS cricketer who could ace javelin. Hint: He's not Indian

Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Neeraj Chopra has regained the number one position in the World Rankings, in the latest list released by World Athletics. Neeraj had lost the no. 1 ranking to Anderson Peters on September 17 last year, when the Grenadian athlete won the Diamond League Final in Brussels. Currently, Neeraj has 1445 points while Peters has 1431. German sensation Anderson Peters is third with 1407 points, followed by Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, who is fourth with 1370.&nbsp;Chopra is the sole Indian among the top 10 of the world men's javelin throw rankings. Sachin Yadav is the second highest Indian, at no. 24. Kishore Jena is at no. 35 in the world, and Yash Vir Singh and Vikrant Malik come in at 41 and 51, respectively. Rohit Yadav ranks 59th. Sahil Silwal and Uttam Patil fill out the top 100 with positions of 77 and 78, respectively.&nbsp;Just a few days back, Neeraj Chopra clinched the title at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic on Tuesday (June 24). The 27-year-old athlete began with a foul and then upped the ante with his 85.29-metre throw. This also made him the only one in the event to cross the 85-meter mark.&nbsp;Chopra started and finished with fouls; he recorded 82.17 metres and 81.01 metres in his second and third throw, respectively. Poised at third place in the second round, the athlete flipped the rankings with his best in the third round, which moved him to the top of the chart. South Africa’s Douw Smit with 84.12-metre throw and Grenada’s Anderson Peters with 83.63-metre throw, secured second and third places. &nbsp;Last month, Neeraj Chopra finally crossed the elusive 90m mark at the 2025 Doha Diamond League on May 16, 2025. Neeraj kicked off the event with a 88.44m throw. His second attempt was not a valid one. He breached the 90m mark in his third attempt. In his fourth attempt, the 27-year-old threw 80.56m, while his fifth throw was not valid and his last throw, he threw 88.20m.&nbsp;In doing so, Neeraj Chopra became the 25th man to cross the 90m mark. Meanwhile, Germany's Julian Weber secured the first position with a throw of 91.06m and Grenadian javelin thrower Anderson Peters settled for the third spot with a throw of 85.64m

Neeraj Chopra back on top of javelin world Pakistans Arshad Nadeem struggles to keep up

Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Neeraj Chopra has regained the number one position in the World Rankings, in the latest list released by World Athletics. Neeraj had lost the no. 1 ranking to Anderson Peters on September 17 last year, when the Grenadian athlete won the Diamond League Final in Brussels. Currently, Neeraj has 1445 points while Peters has 1431. German sensation Anderson Peters is third with 1407 points, followed by Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, who is fourth with 1370. Chopra is the sole Indian among the top 10 of the world men's javelin throw rankings. Sachin Yadav is the second highest Indian, at no. 24. Kishore Jena is at no. 35 in the world, and Yash Vir Singh and Vikrant Malik come in at 41 and 51, respectively. Rohit Yadav ranks 59th. Sahil Silwal and Uttam Patil fill out the top 100 with positions of 77 and 78, respectively. Just a few days back, Neeraj Chopra clinched the title at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic on Tuesday (June 24). The 27-year-old athlete began with a foul and then upped the ante with his 85.29-metre throw. This also made him the only one in the event to cross the 85-meter mark. Chopra started and finished with fouls; he recorded 82.17 metres and 81.01 metres in his second and third throw, respectively. Poised at third place in the second round, the athlete flipped the rankings with his best in the third round, which moved him to the top of the chart. South Africa’s Douw Smit with 84.12-metre throw and Grenada’s Anderson Peters with 83.63-metre throw, secured second and third places. Last month, Neeraj Chopra finally crossed the elusive 90m mark at the 2025 Doha Diamond League on May 16, 2025. Neeraj kicked off the event with a 88.44m throw. His second attempt was not a valid one. He breached the 90m mark in his third attempt. In his fourth attempt, the 27-year-old threw 80.56m, while his fifth throw was not valid and his last throw, he threw 88.20m. In doing so, Neeraj Chopra became the 25th man to cross the 90m mark. Meanwhile, Germany's Julian Weber secured the first position with a throw of 91.06m and Grenadian javelin thrower Anderson Peters settled for the third spot with a throw of 85.64m

Just a few days back, Neeraj Chopra clinched the title at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic. he 27-year-old athlete began with a foul and then upped the ante with his 85.29-metre throw. This also made him the only one in the event to cross the 85-meter mark.

Neeraj Chopra back on top of javelin world, Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem struggles to keep up

Neeraj Chopra might have won the Golden Spike title in his first outing at the meet, but the two-time Olympic champion was not pleased with his throw. Chopra's personal best effort of 85.29m was sufficient to win the event in a nine-man field, at the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet on Tuesday (June 24). "I am not too satisfied with my performance today, but I am extremely satisfied with the trophy that I have won," Chopra said after winning. "I would watch this gathering a lot as a child. I used to watch individuals like Jan Zelezny and Usain Bolt, who would win the Golden Spike and I would dream of doing the same. The dream has now materialised," the double Olympic-medallist further added.&nbsp;Although he dominated the event, Chopra said he was short of his own expectations, particularly in front of a full house. "I know the javelin throw is very popular in Czechia. The crowd support we were getting was crazy. I just wish I could have done better for them," said Chopra, who crossed the allusive 90m mark with his second place performance in Doha Diamond League in May 2025.&nbsp;Chopra started and finished with fouls; he recorded 82.17 metres and 81.01 metres in his second and third throw, respectively. Poised at third place in the second round, the athlete flipped the rankings with his best in the third round, which moved him to the top of the chart. South Africa’s Douw Smit with 84.12-metre throw and Grenada’s Anderson Peters with 83.63-metre throw, secured second and third places.&nbsp;Chopra has been in stellar form this season, he crossed the 90-metre mark for the second time in his career at the Doha Diamond League. Earlier this year in May at the Suheim bin Hamad Stadium, India’s two-time Olympic medalist achieved it with his 90.23-metre throw.After finishing second at events, Chopra finally broke the jinx at the Paris Diamond League meet, where he bagged the title with a throw of 88.16 meters.

I am not that happy with my performance today says Neeraj Chopra after winning Ostrava Golden Spike win

Neeraj Chopra might have won the Golden Spike title in his first outing at the meet, but the two-time Olympic champion was not pleased with his throw. Chopra's personal best effort of 85.29m was sufficient to win the event in a nine-man field, at the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet on Tuesday (June 24). "I am not too satisfied with my performance today, but I am extremely satisfied with the trophy that I have won," Chopra said after winning. "I would watch this gathering a lot as a child. I used to watch individuals like Jan Zelezny and Usain Bolt, who would win the Golden Spike and I would dream of doing the same. The dream has now materialised," the double Olympic-medallist further added. Although he dominated the event, Chopra said he was short of his own expectations, particularly in front of a full house. "I know the javelin throw is very popular in Czechia. The crowd support we were getting was crazy. I just wish I could have done better for them," said Chopra, who crossed the allusive 90m mark with his second place performance in Doha Diamond League in May 2025. Chopra started and finished with fouls; he recorded 82.17 metres and 81.01 metres in his second and third throw, respectively. Poised at third place in the second round, the athlete flipped the rankings with his best in the third round, which moved him to the top of the chart. South Africa’s Douw Smit with 84.12-metre throw and Grenada’s Anderson Peters with 83.63-metre throw, secured second and third places. Chopra has been in stellar form this season, he crossed the 90-metre mark for the second time in his career at the Doha Diamond League. Earlier this year in May at the Suheim bin Hamad Stadium, India’s two-time Olympic medalist achieved it with his 90.23-metre throw. After finishing second at events, Chopra finally broke the jinx at the Paris Diamond League meet, where he bagged the title with a throw of 88.16 meters.

Ace javelin thrower clinched the Ostrava Golden Spike title with a throw of 85.29m

'I am not that happy with my performance today', says Neeraj Chopra after winning Ostrava Golden Spike win

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