Neeraj Chopra Breaks 90m Barrier with 90.23m Throw in Doha Diamond League, Finishes Second

Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra finally shattered the 90-metre barrier, recording a personal best of 90.23m during the men’s javelin event at the Doha Diamond League 2025 on Friday.

This mark, achieved on his third attempt, made Chopra the first Indian to cross 90 metres in a world-level competition.

A Historic Personal Milestone

Before Doha, Chopra’s best throw stood at 89.94m, recorded during the 2022 Stockholm Diamond League. His third attempt in Doha, however, soared beyond expectations, making history as he launched the javelin to 90.23m, setting a new national record.

Despite the achievement, Chopra finished second in the event. Germany’s Julian Weber claimed the top spot with a career-best throw of 91.06m.

A Roar Heard Across the Nation

Chopra’s breakthrough moment came in front of an electric crowd. His first attempt of 88.44m was strong, followed by a foul in the second round. It was in the third round that he delivered the much-anticipated 90.23m throw.

The javelin sliced through the Doha sky and landed beyond the mythical mark, sparking celebration among fans and sports circles.

Jan Zelezny’s Impact

This performance also highlighted the influence of Chopra’s new coach, Jan Zelezny, a three-time Olympic gold medallist.

Chopra recently appointed Zelezny as his coach, replacing Dr. Klaus Bartonietz. The technique and confidence instilled by Zelezny appeared evident in Doha.

Chopra later thanked his coach and physio, saying, “Grateful to my coach, Jan Zelezny and physio Ishaan Marwaha for their constant support. This is just the beginning.”

Recognition From Legends

Former Olympic champion Thomas Rohler welcomed Chopra to the 90m+ club with a congratulatory message, stating, “Welcome to the 90m+ club.” Rohler, who won the Rio 2016 Olympics with a 90.30m throw, joined the many global athletes who recognised Chopra’s long-awaited achievement.

Neeraj also became only the third Asian to achieve this feat after Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem (92.97m) and Chinese Taipei’s Chao-Tsun Cheng (91.36m).

Still Room to Grow

Though Chopra was unable to clinch gold in Doha, his performance was a breakthrough moment. “A lot of people had this question—whether I’d be able to throw 90m or not—since I hadn’t done it despite competing since 2018,” Chopra said in an interview with Revsportz.

“But finally, not just for me, but at least for Indians, the burden has reduced. I feel I can do even better,” he added.

A Strong Field in Doha

In addition to Chopra’s historic throw, Julian Weber’s 91.06m attempt not only secured victory for the German athlete but also marked his own first entry into the 90m club, making him the 26th athlete in history to achieve the feat.

Chopra’s fourth attempt resulted in a foul, and despite his stellar earlier throw, Weber overtook him in the final round.

Eyes Set on Bigger Goals

With the pressure of the 90m milestone now behind him, Chopra can focus on upcoming major competitions. He aims to defend his World Championship title and ultimately reclaim the Olympic gold at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The Doha performance was more than a number—it was a career-defining moment that symbolised Chopra’s growth and perseverance.

It confirmed his place among the sport’s all-time greats and inspired a new generation of Indian athletes to aim higher.