Neeraj Chopra Breaks 90m Barrier In Doha: ‘India’s Longest Throw’ - WATCH

Dreams do come true--and the world saw it unfold in Neeraj Chopra’s story last night. The Indian javelin star finally achieved a long-pursued milestone by breaking the elusive 90-meter mark at the Doha Diamond League 2025 men’s javelin event. (Highlights | More Athletics News)

With a throw of 90.23 meters, the 27-year-old secured second place, finishing just behind Germany’s Julian Weber, who claimed gold with a massive 91.06m effort. In doing so, Chopra became only the third Asian and the 25th athlete in history to cross the 90-meter barrier in javelin.

His record-breaking performance sparked celebrations across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, congratulated Chopra, stating:

“A spectacular feat! Congratulations to Neeraj Chopra for breaching the 90m mark at Doha Diamond League 2025 and achieving his personal best throw. This is the outcome of his relentless dedication, discipline, and passion. India is elated and proud.”

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also joined in the praise, calling it “India’s longest and career-best throw.”

Neeraj Chopra Thanks Coach

After the event, Chopra credited his new coach, Czech legend Jan Zelezny, for playing a key role in this milestone. The duo began working together in February 2025.

“I am very happy with the 90m mark, but it's a little bittersweet actually. Still, I and my coach are working on a few technical aspects. He normally doesn’t travel to Diamond Leagues, but he came with me this time and told me, ‘Today is the day to achieve 90m," Chopra said.

He also opened up about physical challenges that had previously held him back.

“I was always feeling something in my groin in the last few years. I couldn’t give my best because of that. This year, I feel much better. We’re still working on a few aspects, and I believe I can go beyond 90m in the upcoming events.”

Chopra revealed that the conditions in Doha--warm weather and helpful winds--contributed to the big throws. He said Zelezny encouraged him before and after the event, believing he could throw 2-3 meters farther.

Eye on the World Championships

Looking ahead, Neeraj Chopra has his eyes set on the World Athletics Championships to be held in Tokyo from September 13 to 21.

“My next goal remains 90m and beyond. I believe I’m ready to throw farther. It’s just the beginning of a long season. We worked very hard in South Africa, and there’s more to come,” he added.

Reflecting on past near-misses, Chopra noted how national records often came with a second-place finish.

“It happened before too. In Turku, I threw over 89m and finished second. In Stockholm Diamond League, I threw 89.94m--again second. And now, even after 90.23m, I’m second again,” he said with a laugh.

Chopra, who won silver at the Paris Olympics with an 89.45m throw, had narrowly missed out on gold to Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, who threw 92.97m.

Now, with the 90-meter club finally breached, Neeraj Chopra is dreaming even bigger, raising fans' expectations for the upcoming World Athletics Championships.