Javelin Throw Final, World Athletics Championships 2023: In another first, three Indians finished in top eight with Kishore Jena (84.77m) and DP Manu (84.14m) taking the fifth and sixth spots respectively.
Neeraj Chopra, in a historic moment for Indian athletics, clinched the gold medal in the men’s javelin throw event at the World Athletics Championships held in Budapest, Hungary. The ‘golden boy of Indian athletics’ etched his name in history by becoming the first-ever Indian athlete to secure a gold medal at this prestigious championship.
Neeraj’s remarkable achievement
Neeraj’s remarkable achievement unfolded in the early hours of August 28 as he went head-to-head with competitors from around the world. Displaying exceptional prowess, he recorded a stellar throw of 88.17 meters during his second attempt, solidifying his dominance throughout the event.
This outstanding performance not only secured the gold medal for Neeraj but also established him as a trailblazer for Indian sports on the global stage.
The competition
Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, another formidable contender, closely trailed Neeraj’s achievement with a silver medal in hand. Nadeem, who has previously shone on the Commonwealth Games stage, managed a commendable throw of 87.82 meters.
The third spot on the podium was secured by Jakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic, who showcased his prowess with a best throw of 86.67 meters.
Neeraj’s father expresses pride
Neeraj’s father Satish Kumar, visibly proud of his son’s achievement told ANI, “This is a very proud moment for our country as we got a gold medal in the World Championship as well. We will celebrate once Neeraj comes back to India.”
Congratulations to Neeraj Chopra
As the news of Neeraj’s historic victory spread, congratulatory messages poured in from all corners. Among those celebrating was India’s Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Thakur, who hailed Neeraj’s feat as a watershed moment in Indian sporting history. He took to social media to express his pride and appreciation for the athlete’s remarkable achievement.
The Indian Army also joined the chorus of well-wishers, lauding Neeraj’s accomplishment. Recognising his achievement as a monumental one, the Indian Army shared their congratulations on various social media platforms.
Neeraj’s legacy
Neeraj’s gold medal not only adds a glittering achievement to his personal record but also enriches India’s medal tally at the World Athletics Championships. This victory marks his second medal at the Championships, having previously secured a silver medal.
Neeraj has also made India proud by winning the gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, becoming the first Indian to do so in track and field events. He has also won gold medals at the Asian Games 2018 and the Commonwealth Games 2018.
Neeraj Chopra has truly emerged as a shining star of Indian athletics and an inspiration for millions of aspiring athletes across the nation.
