Indian javelin sensation Neeraj Chopra claimed the top spot at the prestigious Golden Spike meet in Ostrava, marking his first appearance at the event with a victory. Despite the win, the Olympic gold medallist admitted he wasn’t fully satisfied with his performance.
Neeraj registered a best throw of 85.29 meters, which secured him the title against a lineup of nine competitors at the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold held on Tuesday. However, he described the outing as a bittersweet experience.
“I’m happy to have won the trophy, but I wasn’t at my best today,” said Neeraj Chopra after the event.
Reflecting on the moment, Chopra shared his long-standing admiration for the meet, having grown up watching icons like Jan Zelezny and Usain Bolt dominate at Ostrava.
“It’s a special moment because I’ve dreamt of winning here since childhood,” he said. “I just wish I could’ve given a more impressive performance.”
Chopra, who has already crossed the 90-meter mark earlier this season at the Doha Diamond League, admitted he had hoped to deliver a stronger showing for the passionate Czech fans.
“The javelin throw is hugely appreciated in Czechia, and the crowd was fantastic. I feel like I owed them something better today.”
His winning effort came in the third round, following an opening foul and a second attempt of 83.45 meters. His subsequent throws were measured at 82.17m, 81.01m, and another foul in the final round.
Although not reaching his personal bests, Neeraj Chopra, 27, continues to display excellent consistency this season. He recently grabbed a win at the Paris Diamond League, reinforcing his world-class form.
Looking ahead, Chopra is set to compete at the NC Classic in Bengaluru on July 5, where he is expected to go up against formidable rivals such as Anderson Peters and Thomas Rohler.
