‘India is elated and proud’: PM Modi praises Neeraj Chopra’s record-breaking throw at Doha

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra etched his name into javelin history on Friday night, finally breaching the much-anticipated 90-metre mark with a stunning 90.23m throw at the Doha Diamond League 2025. Though the effort was a personal best and a major milestone in his glittering career, Chopra had to settle for second place behind Germany’s Julian Weber in a dramatic men’s javelin final.

The 27-year-old’s record-breaking throw came in his third attempt and marked his entry into the elite 90m club, a feat achieved by only 24 others before him. He also became the third Asian athlete to do so. The exclusive group includes his current coach, legendary Czech thrower Jan Železný, who still holds the world record.

Chopra, a double Olympic medallist, has long been eyeing the 90m mark, considered a benchmark for elite javelin throwers. His performance in Doha was met with widespread acclaim, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi joining the chorus of praise.

In a post on X, Modi wrote:

"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."

Chopra’s achievement not only cements his place among the sport’s greats but also fuels optimism for further glory at upcoming international championships, including the Paris 2024 Olympics and the World Athletics Championships.