Neeraj Chopra, a two-time Olympic medalist in javelin throw, began his 2025 season with a strong performance at the Potch Invitational Track event in Potchefstroom, South Africa. The 27-year-old Indian athlete won the event, marking a great start to his season.
Chopra’s Winning Throw
In the World Athletics Continental Tour Challenger event, Neeraj Chopra topped the six-man field with a throw of 84.52 meters. His performance secured him first place, with South African athlete Douw Smit finishing second. Smit’s best throw was 82.44 meters, but it wasn’t enough to beat Chopra. Despite his win, Chopra’s throw was slightly lower than his personal best of 89.94 meters, which he achieved in 2022.
Close Competition from Douw Smit
Chopra and Smit were the only two athletes to throw beyond 80 meters in the competition. Douw Smit, who is 25 years old, was close to his own personal best of 83.29 meters but couldn’t surpass it. This close competition between Chopra and Smit added excitement to the event.
Third Place Finish for Duncan Robertson
South African athlete Duncan Robertson secured third place in the event with a throw of 71.22 meters. While his throw wasn’t in the top two, Robertson still made a strong showing at the event.
Neeraj Chopra’s Training Under New Coach
Neeraj Chopra has been training in Potchefstroom with his new coach, Jan Zelezny from the Czech Republic. Zelezny is a three-time Olympic champion and the world record holder in javelin throw. This coaching change comes after Chopra parted ways with his long-time coach Klaus Bartonietz from Germany in 2024.
Upcoming Competitions for Neeraj Chopra
Chopra is now preparing for his next major competition, the Doha Diamond League, which is scheduled for May 16, 2025. This event will mark the beginning of his elite-level season, and Chopra will aim to continue improving his performances.
Chopra’s Olympic Success and Personal Best
Chopra has had an impressive career, winning gold in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and silver in the 2024 Paris Olympics. His personal best throw of 89.94 meters, achieved in 2022, remains a milestone. He has been working hard to surpass the 90-meter mark, and fans are excited to see how he performs in the upcoming season.
