Lausanne: Olympic and World Champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra delivered another dazzling performance at the Lausanne Diamond League on Friday, hurling the javelin to a season-best distance of 89.49 metres in his third attempt to win the gold medal — his fourth Diamond League title in three years and his best performance of the 2024 season so far.
Chopra, the 26-year-old from Haryana who became the first Indian to win an Olympic track and field gold medal in Tokyo, was in imperious form at the Stade Olympique de la Pontaise, consistently throwing above 86 metres across five of his six attempts. His winning throw of 89.49m was a personal best for the 2024 season and the third-best throw of his career, bringing him tantalizingly close to the 90-metre barrier he has been chasing.
Germany’s Julian Weber, who has been Chopra’s closest rival this season, finished second with 86.72 metres, while Czech Republic’s Jakub Vadlejch claimed bronze with 85.91m. Chopra led the competition from his first throw and was never seriously challenged after his third attempt.
Speaking to the Indian media post-event, a visibly delighted Chopra said he was “very happy with how the body is feeling” and expressed confidence about his prospects at the upcoming Paris Olympics. “89.49 is a good number, but I know 90 is very much possible. I’m looking forward to the Olympic final more than anything,” he said.
Athletics Federation of India (AFI) President Adille Sumariwalla congratulated Chopra, calling the performance “a statement of intent” ahead of Paris. Indian Olympic Association chief PT Usha also praised Chopra and said India was “counting on Neeraj” to retain his title at the Paris Games.
Chopra’s Diamond League trophy haul — won in consecutive seasons — places him among the most dominant javelin throwers in the history of the event. He is currently ranked World No. 1 in the men’s javelin throw and is the strong favourite to win Olympic gold in Paris.
