Neeraj Chopra Aims for 90m Throws After Diamond League Victory
Neeraj Chopra's Triumph at the Paris Diamond League
On June 21 in Paris, Neeraj Chopra, a two-time Olympic medalist, celebrated his victory at the Diamond League, setting his sights on achieving a 90-meter throw in future competitions. During his first attempt at Stade Charlety, he launched the javelin an impressive 88.16 meters, securing his first Diamond League title in two years. He outperformed Germany's Julian Weber, who finished second with a throw of 87.88 meters, while Brazil's Luiz Mauricio da Silva took third place with a throw of 86.62 meters in the third round.
Chopra expressed his joy at standing atop the podium in the French capital, stating, "I was really happy with the start because I had a really good run-up technique, and everything was perfect. However, I felt that my body was going too much to the left today. I was trying to go with the javelin with my chest, so my technique was not so good today. My run-up technique was perfect, and the first throw was really good to start with. I am very happy with 88 meters today and a win after such a long time in a Wanda Diamond League."
Reflecting on his journey, the 27-year-old recalled his first Diamond League appearance in Paris back in 2017. He is determined to maintain consistency this season, especially after surpassing the 90-meter mark in Doha on May 16, where he recorded a throw of 90.23 meters, finishing second to Weber, who won with a final-round effort of 91.06 meters.
Chopra noted, "When I started my Wanda Diamond League career, I began here in Paris, so it is my second time here after my debut in 2017. After seven or eight years, I am happy with the win here. Consistency is crucial. Competing in events like World Championships or the Olympics requires winning under pressure. I am thrilled to win here among so many talented athletes. The competition is fierce, and I am pleased with my consistency, hoping to achieve 90 meters in more events."
He also acknowledged the influence of legendary javelin thrower Jan Zelezny, under whose mentorship he has been training. Chopra described Zelezny as a source of positive energy and credited him for refining his technique, particularly by recommending quicker, shorter steps during the crossover phase instead of longer strides. He emphasized that working with the three-time Olympic champion has significantly enhanced his confidence and composure.
"Having Jan Zelezny around me makes me feel great about myself. When I am around him or when he coaches me, I feel very good. There is some positive energy about him, and everybody knows he was a great athlete who threw over 90 meters. Unlike other coaches who advised me to take long steps during the crossover, he suggested I could take shorter steps but maintain good speed. This approach aligns with what I am already doing, but I need to focus on my technique when I throw," he concluded.