Neeraj Chopra attains career-high ranking in men’s javelin, becomes new world number 1
Olympic Champion Neeraj Chopra was etched in the history books after becoming the first Indian to attain the world number 1 ranking in the men’s javelin discipline on Monday, 22 May.
Chopra, one of India’s greatest track and field athletes of all time dethroned Anderson Peters from the world no.1 position.
Neeraj Chopra’s stellar run began with his historic gold medal win at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where he became the first Indian athlete to claim Olympic gold in athletics. His remarkable throw of 87.58 meters propelled him to victory and etched his name in the annals of Indian sporting history.
Building on his Olympic success, Neeraj continued his dominant form in subsequent competitions. At the prestigious Diamond League in Zurich, he showcased his prowess once again by clinching the gold medal with a commanding throw of 89.63 meters. This outstanding performance further solidified his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the javelin arena.
Chopra’s ascendency to the top position in the rankings comes after his victory in the Doha Diamond League event which he won with a throw of 88.67m. Competing in the same event, Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Jakub Vadlejch finished 2nd with a best throw of 88.63m. World Champion Anderson Peters, who had thrown in excess of 93m in Doha last year, finished third with a best effort of 85.88m.
Chopra spoke to the media after the event and said that his aim was to keep consistency going into the Paris Olympics, scheduled to take place in 2024.
“It was a very hard win, but I’m happy, It’s a really good start for me. I hope to come in the first place in the next competitions and to keep consistent during this season,” Chopra told the media after his win at Doha.
“I feel really good, today was challenging for all athletes, but I’m still satisfied with my result. It was a good start and it’s a great atmosphere. Lot of people came to support me and they are really happy,” Chopra concluded.