TV
The men’s javelin throw final at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo promises a blockbuster clash as India’s Neeraj Chopra faces Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem in yet another chapter of their growing rivalry. With both athletes at the peak of their powers, fans can expect fireworks on Thursday evening.
Neeraj Cruises Through Qualification
Defending World Champion and two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra made qualification look effortless. The 27-year-old registered a throw of 84.50m in his very first attempt, comfortably crossing the automatic qualifying mark of 84m to book his spot in the final.
Arshad’s Nervy Start, Strong Finish
Pakistan’s Olympic Champion Arshad Nadeem had a shaky start, struggling at 76.99m and flirting with elimination. But the big thrower found his rhythm in time, unleashing a powerful 85.28m effort to storm into the final.
Indian Support in the Final
India will have double representation in the medal round. Alongside Neeraj, Sachin Yadav produced a fine performance with a throw of 83.67m, securing his place in the 12-man final.
Global Competition Heats Up
Former World Champion Anderson Peters of Grenada set the tone with a season’s best 89.53m, while Germany’s Julian Weber impressed with 87.21m. Veterans like Kenya’s Julius Yego and Czech Republic’s Jakub Vadlejch add further depth to the field.
A Rivalry with History
In the last World Championships, Neeraj clinched gold with 88.17m, edging out Arshad’s 87.82m. However, Arshad turned the tables at the Olympics, striking gold with a record-breaking 92.97m, while Neeraj settled for silver.
Now, Chopra aims to join legends Jan Zelezny and Anderson Peters as the only men to defend a world javelin title successfully.
