Neeraj Chopra Aims for World Athletics Championship Glory After NC Classic Victory
Neeraj Chopra Shines at NC Classic 2025
By Vivek Prabhakar Singh
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India] - On July 6, India's javelin star, Neeraj Chopra, has set his sights on the upcoming World Athletics Championships following his gold medal win at the inaugural NC Classic 2025 held in Bengaluru.
The atmosphere at the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium was electric, with thousands of fans cheering as Neeraj launched his javelin. On a breezy yet pleasant evening, the 27-year-old athlete achieved an impressive throw of 86.18 meters, securing the top spot before the event concluded.
With this latest achievement, Neeraj is now gearing up for the World Athletics Championships, which will take place from September 13 to 21 in Tokyo, where he aims to defend his title. In 2023, he delivered one of his finest performances, recording a throw of 88.17 meters to clinch the gold medal.
Prior to the championship, Neeraj plans to enhance his technique in collaboration with his coach, Jan Zelezny, to increase his chances of retaining the title.
“This is the most significant competition of the year, and we won gold last time at the World Championship. We need to put in the effort to defend that title, and I will work closely with my coach to refine my technique,” Neeraj stated.
During the NC Classic 2025, numerous athletes surpassed the 80-meter mark, showcasing their skills. Neeraj, eager before his initial throw, unfortunately fouled his attempt and required some calming from his coach. Although he did not achieve his personal best of 90.23 meters from Doha, he expressed satisfaction with his performance, acknowledging the potential for improvement.
“It was a good experience. There was pressure with so many spectators present. I am pleased with my performance, though I believe I could have thrown better. The conditions today were not ideal, but it was still a great competition,” he remarked.
In front of an enthusiastic crowd, Neeraj emerged victorious, while Kenya's Julius Yego achieved his season's best with a throw of 84.51 meters, securing second place. Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage finished third with a throw of 84.34 meters.