NEW DELHI: Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra created history by becoming the first Indian and the 25th in the world to breach 90ms in the javelin throw event. Neeraj achieved a career-best performance by throwing the javelin to a distance of 90.23 meters in his third attempt at the Doha Diamond League yesterday. Neeraj is currently the world champion and has won two Olympic medals, including a gold. Now, Neeraj's response to his historic feat is discussed in sports circles.
Despite achieving a historic feat, Neeraj refrained from his iconic celebration of chest-thumping but simply graced a smile and walked away.
"Despite competing at high levels since 2018, I was unable to reach the 90-meter mark. I threw 88 and 89, but I couldn't reach 90 meters. In the end, I cleared that hurdle, not only for myself but for all Indians. I feel like I can go a long way." said India's golden boy.
With a 90-meter throw, Neeraj also broke his national record. Neeraj started the competition by throwing the javelin to a distance of 88.44 meters on his first attempt in the Doha Diamond League. The third attempt was a record throw of 90.23 meters. But the surprise came in the final round when Germany's Julian Weber (91.06) surpassed everyone with a giant attempt, putting Neeraj in second place and tying him for the title.