Neeraj Chopra Wins Gold at Ostrava Golden Spike 2025 with 85.29m Throw

Indian javelin ace clinches second international title of the season, dominates field despite missing personal best

Ostrava (Czech Republic) : Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra added yet another feather to his cap by winning the javelin throw title at the Ostrava Golden Spike 2025, part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Group A. Chopra clinched gold with a best effort of 85.29 metres, securing his second international title this season after his recent triumph at the Paris Diamond League.

The 27-year-old from Haryana stamped his authority on the competition with his third throw, taking the lead that remained unchallenged through six rounds. South Africa’s Douwe Smit took silver with a throw of 84.12 metres, while two-time world champion Anderson Peters of Grenada settled for bronze at 83.63 metres.

Chopra, who made history by winning gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and silver at the 2024 Paris Games, showed resilience after starting with a foul in his opening attempt. He registered 83.45m on his second throw and then delivered the winning 85.29m on his third. Despite not improving in his final three attempts (82.17m, 81.01m, and a deliberate foul), his third-round throw was enough to secure the top podium finish.

Although Chopra was hoping to repeat his recent 90m-plus performance, he remained satisfied with the victory. “I didn’t reach the distance I was aiming for, but a win is a win. I’ll take this result and keep building,” he said after the event.

The Ostrava meet featured nine elite competitors, including Rio Olympic champion Thomas Rohler, who finished seventh with a throw of 79.18m. Chopra’s commanding win demonstrated his consistency and growing dominance in global athletics.

As the countdown to the Paris Olympics continues, Neeraj Chopra’s form remains a strong hope for India’s medal tally. His gold in Ostrava further solidifies his place as one of the world’s top javelin throwers, even as he eyes another record-breaking season.