India’s star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra fell short of expectations at the World Athletics Championships 2025, finishing 8th in the men’s javelin final held in Tokyo.
The Olympic gold medalist registered a best throw of 84.03 meters, achieved in his second attempt, marking his first finish outside the top three in 26 consecutive competitions.
Chopra began with a solid 83.65m throw and improved slightly in his second attempt. However, his third throw was a foul, and subsequent attempts failed to surpass his best. His fourth throw measured 82.86m, and he slipped during his fifth, resulting in another foul.
Despite advancing to the final round after a qualification throw of 84.85m, Chopra couldn’t replicate his Diamond League Final form, where he had secured second place with a throw of 85.01m.
The result marks a rare off-day for the Indian icon, who has consistently dominated the global javelin circuit. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as he prepares for upcoming events, including the Asian Games and Paris Olympics.
