New Delhi: Neeraj Chopra, despite a challenging evening at the Lausanne Diamond League, showcased his resilience and competitive spirit, securing a commendable second-place finish. After struggling through his initial throws, Chopra delivered a stunning performance in the final attempts, underscoring his determination and skill.
For much of the competition, Chopra’s throws were below his usual standard: 82.10m, 83.21m, 83.13m, and 82.34m. With these early attempts, it seemed he might miss the top three for the first time in a Diamond League event since 2018. However, Chopra’s fighting spirit shone through as he battled through physical discomfort and mental pressure.
In the fifth round, Chopra improved to 85.58m, but it was his final throw that made the difference. His sixth attempt landed at 89.49m, surpassing his previous season best by four centimeters. This impressive throw earned him the second spot, trailing behind Grenada’s Anderson Peters, who clinched first place with a throw of 90.61m. Germany’s Julian Weber secured third place with a throw of 87.08m.
Chopra’s performance in the latter part of the competition demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, a trait that continues to define his career. He attributes his successful comeback to advice from fellow competitor Julius Yego, who encouraged him to stay relaxed. “In the last throw, I did not think much. I just gave my best,” Chopra explained.
Chopra’s performance comes amidst ongoing concerns about a groin injury sustained during the Paris Olympics. Despite this, he has managed his condition with treatment and is optimistic about his recovery. “Luckily, after Paris, the injury was not too bad. I did some treatment with my physio and it went well. When the season ends, I want to go to the doctor and address the groin issue to ensure I’m fully fit for next season,” Chopra said.
With three of the four Diamond League meetings completed, Peters and Jakub Vadlejch have already secured their spots for the final. Chopra, along with Weber, is well-positioned with 14 points and is expected to advance to the finals.
Neeraj Chopra’s ability to deliver under challenging circumstances and his mental toughness have been remarkable. As he prepares for the remainder of the season and the upcoming competitions, his focus remains on overcoming his injury and refining his technique. His performance in Lausanne has reaffirmed his status as a top contender in javelin throw, and the athletics community eagerly anticipates his future achievements.