Neeraj Chopra Secures Historic Gold at World Athletics Championships

BUDAPEST, August 28, 2023 — Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic champion and Indian javelin thrower, has once again etched his name in the annals of history. With a spectacular javelin throw of 88.17 meters, Chopra clinched India's first-ever gold medal at the World Athletics Championships held at the National Athletics Centre in Budapest.

The world watched in awe as Neeraj Chopra, faced with competitors from across the globe, displayed exceptional skill in the early hours of August 28. With a second attempt javelin throw spanning an incredible 88.17 meters, Chopra reaffirmed his dominance in the competition, securing the coveted gold medal and solidifying his position as a trailblazer for Indian sports on the global stage.

Following closely behind Chopra, Arshad Nadeem from Pakistan secured the silver medal with a remarkable javelin throw covering a distance of 87.82 meters. Meanwhile, Jakub Vadlejch from the Czech Republic showcased his talent with a top throw of 86.67 meters, earning him the third place.

This triumphant victory completes India's medals collection at the championship, including a gold and silver courtesy of Chopra and a bronze secured by Anju Bobby George, who achieved third place in the women's long jump event during the 2003 World Championships.

At just 25 years old, Neeraj Chopra has amassed an impressive array of gold medals across various prestigious events. His accomplishments include triumphs in the Olympics (Tokyo 2021), Asian Games (2018), Commonwealth Games (2018), and U-20 World Championships (2016), in addition to claiming the Diamond League title last year.

Chopra's latest gold medal achievement not only underscores his remarkable journey but also boosts India's overall medal tally at the World Athletics Championships. This victory marks his second medal at the Championships, adding to his earlier achievement of a silver medal.

In a historic turn of events, three Indian athletes secured spots in the top eight of the competition. Kishore Jena and DP Manu displayed outstanding performances, earning the fifth and sixth spots with javelin throws of 84.77 meters and 84.14 meters, respectively. This achievement marks the first time in the history of the World Championships that three Indian athletes have secured places within the top eight of an event.

As the world celebrates Neeraj Chopra's phenomenal victory and India's historic achievement, the athlete's dedication, skill, and determination serve as an inspiration to aspiring sportspeople across the nation. Chopra's achievement not only adds a glittering jewel to his own collection but also stands as a shining beacon of India's growing prowess in the world of athletics.