Neeraj Chopra opens up about injury struggles & 90m milestone ahead of NC Classic 2025

Star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra sheds light on many things.

India’s golden boy, Neeraj Chopra, has opened up about the emotional weight behind breaching the much-anticipated 90-metre mark in javelin; a moment that was years in the making and deeply personal in its impact.

In an exclusive interaction with the Bharat Army, Chopra reflected on the years of setbacks, limitations, and quiet perseverance that led up to his landmark throw. “That 90 meters had become just a number for me. Everyone kept asking, “When will you do it?” he said.

Behind the scenes, the road was far from easy. “I wasn’t able to practice throws properly and work consistently on my technique for a few years because of injuries,” Chopra revealed, echoing the mental and physical toll that prolonged rehabilitation took on his form and rhythm.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy)

The 90-metre mark has long been considered the benchmark of elite performance in javelin. Few athletes globally have achieved this feat, and for India, Neeraj’s achievement symbolized not just personal success but a shift in what’s possible for Indian track and field on the world stage.

“When I finally did it, everything just poured out,” he recalled. “It felt so good; like something I had imagined for so long had finally come true.”

Looking ahead to the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, the Olympic and world champion said he’s not only excited for the competition but also for the presence of the Bharat Army, India’s most passionate multi-sport fan group known for supporting athletes across disciplines.

He added that crowd energy has a direct impact on performance. “When fans are in the stadium, it changes the atmosphere completely. The kind of motivation and happiness it gives an athlete — you feel it,” he said. “Now, at the Neeraj Chopra Classic, I hope they’ll be there again, cheering for me, cheering for India, and making it special as always.”

Despite the questions and the pressure, Chopra chose to remain patient and focused on his recovery and form. “It wasn’t about proving anything to others,” he said. “It was about getting back to my best and doing justice to my potential.”

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram