Neeraj Chopra Breaks 90m Barrier, But Finishes Second in Doha Diamond League

India’s javelin star makes history with a record-breaking 90.23m throw, but Germany’s Julian Weber edges him out with a stunning 91.06m finish.

May 17, 2025- Doha: Neeraj Chopra, India’s golden boy of athletics, finally shattered the elusive 90-metre barrier in javelin throw at the 2025 Doha Diamond League on Friday night. His monumental throw of 90.23 metres set a new national record, but despite the historic feat, the two-time Olympic medalist had to settle for second place, edged out by Germany’s Julian Weber, who claimed the top spot with a 91.06m effort.

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The achievement marked a long-awaited personal milestone for Chopra, whose previous best was 89.94m, recorded in Stockholm in 2022. With this, he becomes the first Indian athlete to breach the 90m mark in javelin throw at a global competition, cementing his place among the sport’s elite.

Chopra’s historic throw came on his third attempt, following an opening mark of 88.44m and a foul in his second. The javelin cut through the Doha night like a missile, and as it landed, a thunderous roar erupted from the crowd—and soon after, from millions online.

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Despite the heartbreak of narrowly missing out on gold, Chopra’s performance is being celebrated across India for its symbolic and statistical importance. For years, the 90m threshold stood as a mental and athletic summit, and Chopra’s ability to finally conquer it speaks volumes of his resilience and drive.

A New Era with Jan Železný

The influence of Chopra’s new coach, Jan Železný—the legendary three-time Olympic gold medalist—was evident in his approach and execution. Železný replaced Dr. Klaus Bartonietz earlier this year, and Friday’s result suggests that the partnership is already paying dividends.

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Elite Company

With this throw, Neeraj Chopra joins an elite club that includes the likes of Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem and other global giants in the sport who have crossed the 90m mark. It’s a milestone that further elevates his legacy following an Olympic gold in Tokyo and a World Championship title in Budapest.

A Bitter-Sweet Night

While the silver medal may sting for a competitor of Chopra’s calibre, his feat has once again ignited India’s sporting imagination and inspired a generation of aspiring athletes.

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Neeraj Chopra, Doha Diamond League, Javelin Throw, Athletics, Indian Sports, Julian Weber, National Record, Jan Železný, Track and Field, Diamond League 2025