Tokyo : Defending champion Neeraj Chopra’s dream of retaining his World Championships title came to a crushing end on Thursday in Tokyo. Chopra managed a best throw of 84.02m, far short of his personal best of 90.23m. The star javelin thrower looked visibly frustrated, letting out a roar of disappointment after being knocked out in the fifth round of the final.
The result marked a rare setback in Chopra’s glittering career. For the first time in seven years, he failed to win a medal at an international competition. Meanwhile, Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan also endured a forgettable outing in Tokyo. The Tokyo Olympic medalist bowed out early, finishing 10th after a series of underwhelming throws, adding to the drama of a night full of upsets in men’s javelin.
The venue has fond memories for Neeraj, as it was at the same place that he won the Olympic gold medal in 2021, which was India’s second-ever individual Olympic gold medal and the first medal of any colour in athletics. Two-time world champion Anderson Peters will be a key contender this time around, having thrown the longest distance in the qualifier.
Julian Webber is the favourite for a first-ever gold and the most in-form athlete, having won the Diamond League this year. He has thrown over 90 m thrice this year and won every competition he took part in. Neeraj has the chance to become just the third man after Jen Zelenksy and Anderon Peters to defend his title.
Read Also : Vote Chori Charge : Rahul Gandhi Wants To Create Nepal-Like Unrest In India Says BJP