Fan favourite Neeraj claims the title 

The 15,000-odd spectators at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium went home a happy lot as fan favourite Neeraj Chopra claimed the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic title here on Saturday.

Neeraj’s 86.18m heave on his third attempt was enough to get the job done. The action did not quite reach dizzying heights, with heavy crosswinds posing a real challenge.

The coveted 90m mark was never under threat, and it came down to adjusting to the conditions. Neeraj, two-time Olympic medallist and tournament organiser, was up to the task.

Kenya’s Julius Yego provided a fair challenge, finishing second with 84.51m.

Neeraj Chopra competes in the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 international javelin competition in Bengaluru, Karnataka, on July 5, 2025.
| Photo Credit:
PTI

Briefly in lead

Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage, who entered the field as a replacement for Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, briefly held the lead with a 84.34m throw.

Neeraj, who got the big crowd to its feet every time he stepped to his mark, soaked in the adulation. After each effort, he exalted and waved to the supporters. There was anticipation that he would reserve his best for final sixth round, but it was not to be.

A 84.07m fell well short of his best, even if the trophy was already in the bag.

The evening began with much fanfare, with the stands filling up early. Neeraj even had the support of his competitors, who applauded in unison when he stepped up.

Double delight

To win the tournament and to pull off a tough organisational task proved to be double delight for Neeraj.

“Bengaluru has always been a lovely city. The fans supported us throughout. I’m thankful to all of them,” Neeraj said.

With a lot riding on his name, Neeraj felt the pressure. “Since this event is in my name, there was added pressure to do well. I’m quite relieved and happy to win. Of course, my biggest goal was to pull off a successful tournament. I think this was achieved,” Neeraj said.

On the field, Neeraj did his best to overcome the winds. “It was tough to throw into the headwind. The javelin was going left. I spoke to my coach and made the right adjustments,” Neeraj said.

Praise from rivals

Perhaps the biggest win of the night came in the form of praise from Neeraj’s foreign rivals, who all promised to return for the next edition.