Debutant Mahendra Gurjar eyes history at maiden World Athletics Championships 2025

Gurjar recently shattered the world record in men’s javelin throw F42 category.

When Mahendra Gurjar propelled the javelin 61.17 metres at the Nottwil World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Switzerland, breaking the world record for the men’s F42 category, all eyes turned to this rising Indian star.

At just 27-year-old, Mahendra has captured the imagination of para-sport fans worldwide and has firmly established himself as one of India’s brightest medal prospects for the upcoming World Para Athletics Championships 2025 in New Delhi.

Competing in the F42 classification, for athletes with moderate impairment in one leg who do not use prosthetics, Mahendra’s ascent from a humble farming background to the pinnacle of para-athletics is an inspiring story of determination.

His elder brother Ajay Pal stood firmly by his side, sacrificing his own career to ensure Mahendra’s dreams flourished.

“I am my own competition. My focus is on my game and to finish on the podium and bring home the gold,” says Gurjar.

“Being one of the 35 athletes making their debut at these World Championships, I am more motivated than ever. I want to prove my mettle, showcase my skills in front of the home crowd, and give my absolute best.”

Also Read: Top 10 Indian para-athletes to watch at World Para Athletics Championships 2025

At the Nottwil Grand Prix in May 2025, Mahendra’s world-record throw shattered the previous mark of 59.19 metres. The feat came on his third attempt, backed by two solid throws before of 56.11m and 55.51m demonstrating his remarkable consistency.

Just days earlier, he also made his debut in long jump (T42) at the same event where he clinched gold in the T42 long jump on his debut with a leap of 5.59 metres, instantly becoming Asia’s top-ranked long jumper in his class.

Now, fully focused and training harder than ever, Mahendra aims to convert his record-breaking form into a golden performance on home soil at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, where the world’s largest para-athletics gathering meets at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

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