New Delhi, September 18 (HS): India’s star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, defending his crown at the World Athletics Championships 2025 in Tokyo on Thursday, failed to make the podium for the first time in 27 successive international events. Neeraj managed a best throw of 84.03 metres, which left him eighth in the competition and brought an abrupt halt to his remarkable top-two finish streak.
Since June 2021, when Neeraj secured third place at the Kuortane Games in Finland, he had finished either first or second in every tournament he entered. This golden run included victories at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, Paris 2024 Olympics, Asian Games, World Championships, and multiple Diamond League events.
For over four years, Neeraj embodied consistency at the highest level, ensuring India’s presence at the top tier of global athletics. His eighth-place finish in Tokyo marks the first time since 2021 that he has walked away without a medal.
Despite this setback, Neeraj’s journey has already secured its place in Indian sporting history. His exploits reshaped India’s standing on the global athletics map and inspired an entire generation of athletes. From breaking into world dominance with his Olympic gold in Tokyo to defending India’s pride in every elite competition thereafter, Neeraj has become a symbol of perseverance and national pride.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
