India’s star javelin thrower and Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra achieved a monumental milestone on Friday evening at the Doha Diamond League 2025. The reigning world champion became the first Indian athlete ever to breach the 90-metre barrier in men’s javelin, registering a best throw of 90.23 metres.
This historic throw places Chopra among an elite group of just 25 athletes worldwide who have managed to surpass the prestigious 90m mark in the history of the sport. Yet, in an intense and high-quality competition, the Indian icon had to settle for second place, as Germany’s Julian Weber clinched the top spot with a stunning throw of 90.88 metres, setting a new personal best.
A Historic Moment for Indian Athletics
Neeraj Chopra’s performance in Doha marks a turning point in his career and in the history of Indian athletics. The 90m barrier has long been considered a gold standard in javelin throwing, a feat that eluded Chopra despite several close attempts over the years. His previous personal best stood at 89.94 metres, achieved in 2022 at the Stockholm Diamond League.
Breaking the 90m mark not only reaffirms his standing as one of the world’s top javelin throwers but also signals his readiness for upcoming global competitions, including the 2025 World Championships and Paris 2024 Olympics.
Julian Weber Steals the Show
While Chopra’s 90.23m throw grabbed headlines in India and globally, it was Germany’s Julian Weber who walked away with the winner’s medal. Weber, who has been in top form this season, unleashed a massive throw of 90.88 metres in the fifth round to leap ahead of Chopra.
This marks Weber’s first win over Chopra in a major competition, and it sets the stage for an exciting rivalry leading up to the World Championships.
Diamond League Drama Unfolds in Doha
The Doha leg of the Diamond League has often seen standout performances in the men’s javelin event, and 2025 was no different. With ideal weather conditions and a packed stadium, the atmosphere was electric as some of the world’s best javelin throwers went head-to-head.
Chopra began the evening with a strong throw of 88.12m, quickly establishing himself as the frontrunner. He followed it up with 90.23m in his third attempt, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. But Weber’s late surge denied him the top podium spot.
What This Means for Neeraj Chopra
Even though Chopra finished second, the evening was a win in many ways. His throw of 90.23m sets a new national record and boosts his morale ahead of major tournaments.
Speaking to the media post-event, Chopra said:
“It feels amazing to finally cross 90 metres. It’s something I’ve been chasing for a long time. I’ve come close in the past, but today, everything clicked. Of course, I would have loved to win, but I’m very happy with the performance.”
What’s Next for Neeraj Chopra?
With this performance, Chopra has sent a strong message to his competitors. His eyes are now set on defending his world title and aiming for another Olympic gold in Paris next year. He is expected to compete in several more Diamond League events through the season as part of his preparation.
Indian Athletics on the Rise
Neeraj’s historic achievement is another feather in the cap for Indian athletics, which has seen significant progress in recent years. Young athletes like Kishore Jena and DP Manu have also started making international appearances, inspired by Chopra’s success. His journey continues to motivate a new generation of athletes in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What distance did Neeraj Chopra throw at the Doha Diamond League 2025?
Neeraj Chopra recorded a throw of 90.23 metres, marking the first time in his career he crossed the 90m mark.
2. Did Neeraj Chopra win the Doha Diamond League event?
No, despite his personal best, Neeraj Chopra finished second. Germany’s Julian Weber won the event with a throw of 90.88 metres.
3. Why is breaching the 90-metre mark significant in javelin?
The 90m mark is considered an elite benchmark in javelin throwing. Only 25 athletes in history have crossed it, making it a major milestone in the sport.
4. What is Neeraj Chopra’s next major competition?
Chopra is expected to compete in more Diamond League events this season and is preparing for the 2025 World Championships and the Paris 2024 Olympics.
