Neeraj’s Thunderous Start: Olympic Champ Eyes 90m Barrier After Potch Triumph

India's javelin sensation Neeraj Chopra has begun his 2025 campaign in masterful style, winning the Potch Invitational Meet in South African city of Potchefstroom. Two-time Olympic medal winner Chopra hurled 84.52m, to finish atop a six-man pack and send the unmistakable message that he's ready for an annus greatus this season.

Chopra, under new tutelage from great coach Jan Zelezny, was in silky rhythm and technical flow as he outclassed his nearest challenger, South African Douw Smit, with 82.44m. That early-season appearance is an important measure of Chopra's condition and preparation as he adapts under new coaching direction.

All attention now focuses on the Doha Diamond League on May 16, where Chopra will compete against a world-class field and try to carry forward his season-opener momentum. With his eyes fixed on defending his world championship crown in Tokyo and breaking through the elusive 90m mark finally, Chopra's journey this season is bound to be high on drama and suspense. Having fallen short of the 90m mark in the past years by a narrow margin, the Indian ace is keen to join the elite club and make his mark in the sport.

Source: Hindustan Times