India’s star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra kicked off his 2025 season in style, clinching the top spot at an international athletics meet in Potchefstroom, South Africa on Wednesday. The Olympic and World Champion reaffirmed his dominance in the sport with a winning throw of 87.82 meters, comfortably ahead of his competitors.
The event marked Chopra’s first appearance since his successful 2024 campaign, which included a silver medal at the Paris Olympics and a gold at the Asian Games. His South African outing comes as part of his build-up to the World Athletics Championships, set to take place later this year in Tokyo.
Competing in a relatively modest field, Neeraj wasted no time asserting himself. His third attempt, a powerful and technically sound release, sailed past the 87-meter mark, drawing cheers from the small but enthusiastic crowd. The throw was his best of the day and enough to secure him first place.
“I’m happy with how the season has started,” Chopra said after the event. “It’s always important to get into rhythm early, and this was a good test of my training. The conditions were favorable, and I felt strong with my technique.”
His closest challenger, South Africa’s own Johannes Grobler, registered a personal best of 83.17 meters, while Kenya’s Julius Yego finished third with 80.94 meters.
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Chopra has been training in Potchefstroom since early February under the guidance of coach Klaus Bartonietz, focusing on refining his technique and building strength for the competitive season ahead.
With his eyes firmly set on retaining his world title and pushing beyond the elusive 90-meter barrier, Chopra’s early-season form comes as a positive sign for Indian athletics fans. His next appearance is expected at the Diamond League opener in Doha in May.
As India’s most celebrated track and field athlete, Neeraj Chopra continues to inspire a generation, not just with his performances, but with his discipline, humility, and unwavering focus on excellence.