Neeraj Chopra Still Second-Best in the World in Zurich Diamond League 2023

Neeraj Chopra, the world champion, finished second in the Zurich Diamond league 2023 javelin throw with a final round throw of 85.71 meters.

Neeraj Chopra , during the javelin throw final at the Zurich Diamond League 2023

The 25-year-old Neeraj Chopra, who is also the current Olympic champion, had three throws of 80.79 meters, 85.22 meters, and 85.71 meters, while the remaining three were fouls. He finished behind Jakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic (85.86 meters), who won the bronze medal at the World Championships.

Neeraj Chopra, who was unbeaten this season before Thursday, qualified for the Diamond League final in Eugene, USA on September 17 with 23 points from three competitions. He had won the Diamond League javelin throw trophy last year.

Neeraj Chopra said that he was feeling a little pain in his shoulder and back, which he had developed after the World Championships. He was not 100% fit for the showpiece event due to a back strain he suffered during training in May-June.

Neeraj Chopra started with a modest 80.79 meters which put him in second place but he fouled in his next two throws and slipped to fifth place at the halfway stage when Julian Weber of Germany was leading.

However, Neeraj Chopra threw 85.22 meters in his fourth attempt which took him to second place. By that time, Jakub Vadlejch had taken the lead.

Neeraj Chopra fouled his fifth throw again and achieved his best of the day - 85.71 meters - in his last attempt.

Neeraj Chopra said that he was happy with his performance and that he was looking forward to the final in Eugene.

He said, "I am ready for the final. I will give my 100% in all my attempts."

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