Indian Olympic silver medalist Neeraj Chopra kicked off the 2025 season on a positive note by winning the top spot at the Poch Invitational in Potchefstroom, South Africa. It was his opening competition of the season and yielded a best throw of 84.52 meters.
Chopra's performance had him getting the better of domestic rivals Doug Smit, who set a personal best of 82.44 meters, and Duncan Robertson, who clocked 71.22 meters. The Indian athlete, who is starting the new season with Czech coach Jan Janly, appeared calm and composed throughout.
Neeraj Chopra Starts New Season in First Place
India's finest javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra returned to competition in style at the Poch Invitational Track Meet in South Africa. The Olympic silver medallist won with a season-best effort of 84.52 meters, a throw that showcased consistent form in the face of unseasonable weather.
This was Chopra's inaugural competitive spell after he changed coaches. He is now trained by Czech Republic-based Jan Janly, having terminated his earlier affiliation with German coach Klaus Bartonietz. Despite the change, Chopra lost no stride, easily outpacing his competitors in Potchefstroom.
South African Sportsmen Trail Behind as Chopra Sweeps the Competition
Doug Smit, the best in the region, posted a second-place throw of 82.44 meters. Duncan Robertson was third with a best throw of 71.22 meters. While both these players seemed hopeful, neither one was able to break Chopra's lead.
The performance is a milestone in Chopra's bid to pick up steam ahead of sterner competition later. The Indian athlete has already punched a ticket to the next edition of the Diamond League on May 16 in Doha, when the world's best athletes will flock there.
Targeting 90 Meters: Chopra's Season Aims
Neeraj Chopra, who won silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a throw of 89.45 meters, is keen to breach the elusive 90-meter barrier. His personal best is 89.94 meters — a fraction short of the mark — and that figure is at the top of his wish list for the 2025 season.
With regular practice and play under his new coach, Chopra looks destined to turn this dream into reality. His latest outing at Potchefstroom indicates that he is about to pick up speed as the international sporting schedule goes on.
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