India’s javelin ace Neeraj Chopra clinched the Ostrava Golden Spike 2025 title with a best throw of 85.29 meters, yet expressed disappointment over his performance, calling it “not that happy” despite the win. The event, part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold, was held in Czechia on June 24.
A Childhood Dream Fulfilled, But Standards Unmet
Chopra, a double Olympic medallist, recorded his winning throw in the third round, following a foul and an 83.45m attempt. He followed up with 82.17m and 81.01m before ending with another foul.
“I am not that happy with my performance today, but I am very happy with the trophy I won,” Chopra said, adding that winning the Golden Spike had been a dream since childhood.
Crowd Support and Personal Expectations
The 27-year-old acknowledged the electric atmosphere in Ostrava, where javelin enjoys immense popularity.
“The amount of support we were getting from the crowd was crazy. I just wish I could have performed better for them,” he added.
Recent Form and Upcoming Challenges
Chopra’s throw was well below his personal best of 90.23m, achieved at the Doha Diamond League in May. However, the Ostrava win marked his second title in less than a week, following his victory at the Paris Diamond League.
He is now set to compete at the NC Classic in Bengaluru on July 5, where he will face top rivals Anderson Peters and Thomas Rohler.
🔁 Share this article to follow Neeraj Chopra’s journey toward the World Championships and his pursuit of the elusive 90m mark.
