Neeraj Chopra secures second spot at Zurich Diamond League 2023

Published at :September 1, 2023 at 8:04 AM

Modified at :December 13, 2023 at 1:01 PM

(Courtesy : Current Affairs)

The World Champion will be next seen in action at the Diamond League Finals in Eugene.

Tokyo Olympics gold medalist and recently crowned world champion Neeraj Chopra, gracefully secured a commendable second-place finish at the Zurich Diamond League 2023 with a throw of 85.71m

In his very first attempt, Neeraj unleashed his prowess with a mighty throw that covered an impressive distance of 80.79m. However, the competition intensified in the further rounds. In his second attempt, a slight misjudgment led to a foul, giving Jakub Vadlejch the opportunity to seize the lead with his remarkable throw of 83.46m.

Unfortunately, luck eluded Neeraj in his third attempt, as he committed yet another foul. The competition became even more intense in the subsequent rounds, with Julian Weber making his mark by extending his lead with a throw of 85.04m.

After the end of the first three attempts, Neeraj Chopra was positioned fifth and had two more chances to aim at. It was in the fourth attempt that the Indian showcased his true strength. With unwavering focus and perfect execution, he unleashed a monstrous throw that soared through the air and covered a remarkable distance of 85.22m.

But, Neeraj faced a hiccup in the fifth attempt as he registered a no mark for the third time in the last four throws. At the end of the fifth series, the top three athletes were provided with a final opportunity to improve upon their mark. Neeraj Chopra unleashed a powerful throw of 85.71m, falling 15cm short of the top spot. His rival Jakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic grabbed the pole position with a best effort of 85.86m.

Germany's Julien Weber finished a credible third with a 85m+ effort. The second place finish helped Neeraj Chopra gain seven valuable Diamond League points and finish with 23 points overall from the three Diamond League meets this season. Jakub Vadlejch occupies the top spot with 29 points. The Diamond League finals are scheduled to be held in Eugene from 16 -17 September.