India’s javelin superstar Neeraj Chopra has kicked-off his 2025 season with a solid performance, winning the Potch Invitational Track Event in Potchefstroom, South Africa. The Tokyo Olympics gold medalist and Paris Olympics silver medalist registered a best throw of 84.52 meters to top the six-man field, on Wednesday, April 16.
The Javelin fans were expecting Neeraj to begin his season at the Doha Diamond League on May 16, as announced a few days ago. However, the champion surprised everyone by returning to competition earlier than expected in South Africa.
Neeraj looked comfortable and didn’t push himself too hard, as it was just the beginning of the season and the competition didn’t include any major names. Only Neeraj and South Africa’s Douw Smit, who finished second, crossed the 80-meter mark in the event.
Neeraj’s personal best remains 89.94 meters. The 2024 Paris Olympics silver medalist is now preparing for bigger events ahead.
He will next compete at the Doha Diamond League on May 16 followed by Neeraj Chopra Classic (NC Classic), on May 24, at the Tau Devi Lal Athletics Stadium in Panchkula. The event is named after Neeraj himself. The NC Classic is a key qualification event for the World Championships and best javelin stars across the world will compete on the Indian soil.
With the 2025 season underway and the World Athletics Championship on the horizon, Neeraj’s gold medal winning start is a good sign for Indian fans.