Neeraj Chopra's Podium Streak Snapped at World Athletics Final; Fans Voice Support

Neeraj Chopra’s incredible streak in the javelin throw came to an unexpected halt at the World Athletics Championships 2025, as the Tokyo Olympic gold medallist finished eighth in the final on Thursday, September 18. With his underwhelming performance, he failed to win a medal for the first time in seven years.

The 27-year-old Chopra had finished in the top two for 26 consecutive events, an amazing achievement in such a technical sport. This was his first time outside the top two since he placed 3rd at the Kourtane Games in Finland in June 2021.

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In the final, Chopra’s best throw measured 84.02m, well below his personal best of 90.23m. The star thrower looked clearly frustrated, letting out a roar of disappointment after being eliminated in the fifth round.

Neeraj Chopra struggles in World Athletics final

His performance echoed his Tokyo outing, where he struggled to perform at his usual level, opening with 83.65m, then 84.03m, and finishing with 82.86m after a foul throw, showing the pressure he was under.

Even with Chopra’s quiet day, the final had standout performances from other athletes. Sachin Yadav threw a personal best of 86.27m to finish fourth, highlighting India’s growing strength in javelin. Keshorn Walcott, a two-time Olympic medallist including London 2012 gold, won his first World Championships medal with a throw of 88.16m.

Anderson Peters of Jamaica claimed silver with 87.38m, and Curtis Thompson of the United States took bronze with 86.67m.

Fans quickly rallied behind Chopra, confident that he would bounce back stronger. Chopra’s journey continues to inspire, proving that even the best athletes face tough moments but can return with renewed focus and determination.

“One of the greatest streaks in global sports ends today - 4 years of never missing the podium. The comeback will be sweeter,” wrote one fan.

Another fan wrote, “Neeraj Chopra is eliminated. What started with Tokyo ended in Tokyo. Take rest and comeback stronger next time.”

Here's how fans reacted to Neeraj Chopra's exit