Neeraj Chopra Finishes Second in Poland, Extends Stunning Podium Streak
Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra continued his exceptional run of consistency on the international stage, finishing second in the men’s javelin throw event at the Janusz Kusocinski Memorial 2025 in Chorzów, Poland, on Friday, 23 May.
Despite facing tough competition and chilly conditions, Neeraj secured a podium spot with a best throw of 84.14 metres, achieved on his sixth and final attempt. The event was won by Germany’s Julian Weber, who dominated with a throw of 86.12 metres. Grenada’s Anderson Peters, a former world champion, claimed third place with a best of 83.24 metres.
Consistency That Inspires
Neeraj’s runner-up finish in Poland marks the continuation of a remarkable streak: he has now placed in the top two in 22 consecutive international competitions. This run stretches back to his gold medal-winning performance at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and includes Diamond League victories, World Championship medals, and the recent historic 90.23m throw at the Doha Diamond League earlier this month.
While the 84.14m throw was well short of his personal best, Neeraj demonstrated once again why he is one of the most reliable athletes in world athletics. Despite fouling on three of his six attempts, he stayed composed and saved his best for last.
Final Round Comeback
Neeraj’s series in Chorzów read: x, 81.28m, x, x, 81.80m, 84.14m. After five rounds, he found himself behind both Julian Weber and Anderson Peters. But true to his reputation for performing under pressure, Neeraj delivered in the final round. His last throw of 84.14 metres was enough to leapfrog Peters and secure second place.
Following a foul on his fourth attempt, Chopra could be seen consulting with his coach in the stands. The quick exchange appeared to reset his focus, as he followed up with two consecutive legal throws—his best of the night coming right when it mattered most.
Weber’s Dominance
Julian Weber, fresh off his Diamond League win in Doha, was the most consistent thrower of the evening. His series—80.77m, 86.12m, 83.72m, 81.63m, 85.03m, 85.11m—included three throws beyond the 85-metre mark, highlighting his dominance.
Anderson Peters, while not at his explosive best, showed glimpses of form with a top throw of 83.24 metres in the third round. His series: 80.72m, 81.48m, 83.24m, 81.16m, 79.79m, x.
Eyes on Paris
This event served as a key stop in Neeraj Chopra’s build-up to the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he will aim to defend his Olympic title. With the Olympic Games just two months away, Chopra’s continued consistency and his ability to respond under pressure will be vital assets.
For now, his podium streak remains intact, his form stable, and his focus sharp. In the world of elite javelin, Neeraj Chopra continues to set the gold standard—not just in metres, but in mindset.
IT.
