Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Highlights: Neeraj Chopra secures title with 86.18m throw
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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Jul 05, 2025, 21:28:56 IST
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Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Highlights: Neeraj Chopra secures title with 86.18m throw

Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Live: India is set to witness a landmark sporting moment on Saturday, July 5, as double Olympic medallist and World Champion Neeraj Chopra headlines the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, a prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour Gold-Level event.

Held at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, this meet marks the first time India is hosting an international track and field event of such stature, placing it on the same global map as cities like Doha, Paris, and Nairobi.

The meet is co-organised by Neeraj Chopra himself, alongside JSW Sports, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), and World Athletics. More than just a sporting contest, it’s a celebration of Indian athletics entering a new era of global recognition.

"It feels great that such an event is happening in India and that such good athletes have come here to compete together. I am very excited for this event. Organising and playing together is tough. I have always focused on playing, but now I have to take care of everything. As an organiser, I have to think about all these small things. I like it. Thank you to the Karnataka Government and everyone supporting us. A big thank you to the JSW team for their support--they are working very hard with us," Neeraj Chopra said ahead of the event.

The spotlight event of the evening is, of course, the men’s javelin throw, starting at 7:00 PM IST, where Neeraj will take on some of the world’s finest. The lineup features Olympic champion Thomas Röhler (Germany), former world champion Julius Yego (Kenya), and top competitors like Curtis Thompson (USA) and Cyprian Mrzyglód (Poland).

The Indian contingent is equally strong with Rohit Yadav, Sachin Yadav, Sahil Silwal, and Yash Vir Singh in action.

The NC Classic is crucial for Neeraj as he builds momentum toward the World Championships in Tokyo. He enters the meet on a two-event winning streak, including a stunning national record of 90.23m set in Doha.

The event promises much more than elite sport. There will be pre-event music performances, headlined by Haryanvi rapper Dhanda Nyoliwala, and a special felicitation for Jan Zelezny, Neeraj’s coach and the javelin world record holder.

Chopra’s family will also be present, adding a personal touch to what is already a historic occasion.
20:54 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra triumphed at the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 in Bengaluru, securing gold with an impressive 86.18m throw. In front of a thrilled home crowd, he outperformed a world-class field, including past Olympic and World champions. Julius Yego of Kenya won silver, and Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage took bronze.
20:45 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: Gear up for the last round!
Cyprian Mrzygłod of Poland finishes strong with an 82.23m effort on his final attempt, while India's Yashvir Singh registers 79.65m. All eyes then turn to Julius Yego for the final challenge — can he surpass Neeraj Chopra’s leading mark of 86.18m? The answer is no. Yego falls short, securing the silver, as Neeraj Chopra is confirmed the gold medallist at the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025. A triumphant moment for the Olympic champion on home soil, greeted by thunderous applause from a packed Bengaluru crowd.
20:43 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: After five rounds, this is our top 3
Neeraj Chopra (India) - 86.18m
Julius Yego (Kenya) - 84.51m
Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka) - 84.34m
20:40 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: Neeraj makes his penultimate throw
Neeraj Chopra registers a valid fifth attempt with a solid throw of 84.07m. While it doesn’t surpass his best of 86.18m from the third round, it reinforces his dominant position at the top of the leaderboard. The Bengaluru crowd roars in appreciation as Neeraj continues to lead the pack at the NC Classic 2025 with just one round to go.
20:35 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: Have a look at Neeraj's 86.18m throw
20:33 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: Neeraj's fourth attempt is foul
Neeraj Chopra's fourth attempt results in a foul, drawing a collective gasp from the packed stadium. Despite the setback, his third-round throw of 86.18m still keeps him firmly at the top of the leaderboard.

With two more attempts to go, the home crowd remains on edge, hopeful for another big throw from their champion at the NC Classic 2025.
20:31 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra javelin throw Live: Neeraj makes third attempt, 86.18!
Neeraj Chopra delivers a sensational third attempt, launching the javelin to a stunning 86.18 metres! The crowd roars in approval as the Olympic and World Champion tightens his grip on the top spot. After a foul in Round 1 and a strong 82.99m in Round 2, Neeraj is clearly hitting his stride at the NC Classic 2025 — and making it clear that he's here to dominate.
20:22 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra javelin throw Live: Neeraj Chopra storms to the top of the leaderboard with a massive 82.99m throw
End of Round 2 at the NC Classic 2025, and the crowd erupts as Neeraj Chopra storms to the top of the leaderboard with a massive 82.99m throw!

After a foul in his first attempt, the Olympic and World Champion bounces back in style, delivering a statement performance that electrifies the packed Sree Kanteerava Stadium. The rest of the field now has serious ground to cover as Neeraj sets the tone for what’s shaping up to be a thrilling contest.
19:51 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: Foul throw from Neeraj in his first attempt
A hush falls over the packed stadium as Neeraj Chopra steps up for his first attempt — all eyes locked on the two-time Olympic medallist and World Champion. But in a surprising moment, Neeraj registers a foul throw, drawing a collective gasp from the crowd.

While the disappointment is palpable, fans quickly rally behind their hero, knowing he has plenty of throws left to make his mark in this historic competition.
19:49 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: It is a windy evening in Bengaluru
We’re into the first round of action at the Neeraj Chopra Classic, and it's Sahil Silwal who makes an early statement. The Indian throws a solid 77.48m on his very first attempt, setting the benchmark for the rest of the elite field. With the crowd fully engaged and the stadium buzzing, Sahil’s confident start adds an extra layer of excitement to what promises to be a thrilling evening of world-class javelin action. Neeraj is yet to come.
19:36 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra javelin throw Live: It's buzzing in Bengaluru
As the Indian national anthem echoes through the packed Sree Kanteerava Stadium, the entire crowd rises to its feet, and all athletes stand in solemn respect.

Loud, thunderous cheers erupt for Neeraj Chopra, the nation’s pride and the star of the evening, as he steps onto the field. The atmosphere buzzes with emotion — a powerful mix of patriotism, excitement, and admiration — setting the perfect tone for a historic night at the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic.
19:28 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Live: Athletes walk onto the field hand-in-hand with young children
In a heartwarming moment ahead of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, elite javelin athletes walked onto the field hand-in-hand with young children, symbolising the passing of inspiration to the next generation.

The Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru buzzed with energy as thousands of fans packed the stands, with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in attendance to witness this landmark sporting event.

While the atmosphere was electric, weather forecasts hinted at possible rain during the evening, adding an element of unpredictability to an already thrilling occasion.
19:23 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Live: Athletes competing at the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025

  • Thomas Röhler (Germany) – 2016 Olympic Champion with a PB of 93.90m.
  • Luiz Mauricio da Silva (Brazil) – South American record-holder with 86.62.
  • Julius Yego (Kenya) – 2015 World Champion and 2016 Olympic silver medallist.
  • Curtis Thompson (USA) – 2023 Pan Am Games Champion with a PB of 87.76m.
  • Martin Konecny (Czech Republic) – Promising talent from Jan Zelezny’s home nation.
  • Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka) – National record-holder and Asian Throws gold medallist.
  • Cyprian Mrzygłod (Poland) – 2019 European U23 Champion with a PB of 85.92m.
  • Neeraj Chopra – Two-time Olympic medallist and World Champion, organiser and top draw in a rare home appearance.
  • Sachin Yadav – Rising star with an 85.16m PB and 2025 Asian Championships silver medallist.
  • Rohit Yadav – 24-year-old comeback athlete with an 83.40m PB and National Games 2025 silver.
  • Sahil Silwal – National Inter-State gold medallist with an 81.81m PB.
  • Yashvir Singh – Threw 82.57m at the 2025 Asian Championships; broke Neeraj’s U-20 record in 2021.





19:18 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: Warms-ups have begun
19:14 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: AFI President on Neeraj Chopra Classic
The inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic has received high praise from Athletics Federation of India (AFI) President Bahadur Singh Sagoo, who called it a groundbreaking initiative that will inspire and motivate athletes across India.

He emphasised the significance of the event being held in Neeraj Chopra’s name, stating, “This is happening for the first time, and it’s happening in his name. He’s an Olympic medallist, he’s a world champion. It’s a very good thing.” Sagoo also lauded the presence of some of the world’s top javelin throwers and the inclusive nature of the event, noting that it was “organised for all athletes,” making it a major milestone in Indian athletics.

The AFI President further highlighted how this competition plays a vital role in Neeraj’s build-up to the World Championships. “He has a schedule... the Golden League and other meets are all part of his final destination,” he said.

The NC Classic 2025 features a stacked lineup of 12 global stars, including Paris Olympics silver medallist Anderson Peters and former World Champion Julius Yego.

Neeraj himself enters the event in top form, coming off a victory at the 64th Ostrava Golden Spike, where he registered his 24th consecutive top-two finish with a throw of 85.29m.
19:09 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic 2025 Live Updates: Why is Neeraj Chopra Classic so special and significant for India?
The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is special because it marks a historic first for Indian athletics—India’s debut as host of a World Athletics Gold-level international javelin event.

Named after and co-organised by Olympic and World Champion Neeraj Chopra, the meet not only celebrates his unparalleled achievements but also brings some of the world’s top javelin throwers to compete on Indian soil, including stars like Thomas Röhler and Julius Yego.

It’s a rare opportunity for Indian fans to witness elite global competition live, while also inspiring the next generation of athletes.

With cultural performances, emotional resonance, and world-class sport, the NC Classic is more than just an athletics meet—it’s a defining moment for India’s sporting future.
19:06 (IST) Jul 05
NC Classic Live Updates: World Athletics Vice President and former Athletics Federation of India (AFI) President hails Neeraj Chopra
World Athletics Vice President and former Athletics Federation of India (AFI) President Adille Sumariwalla has hailed Neeraj Chopra as the greatest athlete India has ever produced, underscoring his unparalleled achievements on the global stage.

Sumariwalla’s remarks come just days before the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, India’s first international javelin competition, set to be held on July 5 at Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium.

Neeraj, the reigning Olympic and World Champion, recently claimed another title by finishing first at the 64th Ostrava Golden Spike meet. He was the only athlete to surpass the 85-metre mark, sealing the victory with a throw of 85.29m. This marks his 24th consecutive top-two finish, further cementing his dominance in the sport.

Praising Chopra’s exceptional career, Sumariwalla told ANI: “He's the best athlete India has ever ever produced before independence, after independence, the only person to have won 2 gold medals, World Championship and Olympic Games, 2 silver medals, World Championship and Olympic Games. 1 Asian Games, Asian Athletics, Commonwealth Games, world record. In the junior world championship, there isn't a greater athlete than him.”

Sumariwalla also expressed pride and excitement about the launch of the Neeraj Chopra Classic. “This boy is something phenomenal, and I'm absolutely delighted that we are having this Neeraj Chopra Classic,” he added.

With Chopra spearheading the global lineup in Bengaluru, the event is poised to be a landmark moment in Indian athletics history.
19:00 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Live: Neeraj Chopra shares thoughts ahead of the main event
India’s star javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra shared his thoughts on the Neeraj Chopra (NC) Classic 2025, the country’s first international javelin competition named in his honour. Reflecting on the journey that led to this moment, Neeraj said he has put in immense hard work and added, “all this is written in one’s destiny.”

Set to be held on Saturday, July 5, at Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is a defining milestone in Indian athletics. Co-organised by Neeraj himself along with JSW Sports and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India, the event carries World Athletics Gold Level status—placing India firmly on the global javelin map.

Speaking to ANI ahead of the meet, Neeraj reflected on his humble beginnings and the significance of this moment:
“…I think all this is written in one’s destiny. I worked hard. The background I come from is not like this. There was no javelin thrower or athlete in the family. But the journey has been terrific… This is something new which I have tried…”

Neeraj’s 2025 season has been exceptional. He opened with a win at the Potch Invitational in South Africa and then made headlines at the Doha Diamond League, throwing a personal best of 90.23m—the first time he crossed the iconic 90-metre mark.

Commenting on the milestone, Neeraj said:
“I was focused earlier too…But the 90-metre mark has become a magical mark. I have touched it now…It is a massive throw. I would try to throw farther and better, and I would always keep working hard for it.”

Most recently, Neeraj reclaimed the world number one ranking in men's javelin from Grenada’s Anderson Peters. According to World Athletics rankings, Neeraj now leads with 1,445 points, ahead of Peters’s 1,431. Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem is ranked fourth with 1,370 points.

Neeraj had briefly lost his top spot in September 2024, shortly after winning silver at the Paris Olympics with a throw of 89.45m.
18:50 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Live: Why Röhler & Yego say yes to Bengaluru
Athletes abroad seldom get excited by off-season meets, but Thomas Röhler and Julius Yego are different. Röhler said, “It is a pleasure and a joy to come to a country that is on the rising edge of javelin.”

For him, 2025 is a comeback year, and the NC Classic offers competitive exposure ahead of global competitions.

Yego praised Neeraj’s initiative, remarking, “You might see it as small, but it’s actually very big… javelin is no longer confined to one region.” Their presence signals international respect and validation. Their attendance helps raise the event’s profile, ensuring high visibility and broadcast interest.

Moreover, these athletes can share training tips, discipline insights, and professional perspectives that could elevate India’s cohort. The message is powerful: India’s javelin event is worthy of elite attention.
18:48 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Live: Could this be Sachin Yadav’s big break?
For 25-year-old Sachin Yadav, the NC Classic is more than a competition—it’s a coming-of-age moment.

Invited personally by Neeraj Chopra, Sachin expressed immense pride: “When I got the message, I couldn’t believe it… I felt very proud.” Facing global elites like Röhler and Yego on home ground is a rare developmental boost. It provides direct access to learn from champions, test technical skills, and understand elite track pressures.

With India’s rising interest in javelin, performance here could attract sponsorships and open doors to training camps abroad. Sachin’s performance will inspire local coaches and young throwers nationwide.

This event could mark the beginning of his journey toward international recognition—turning training hours into headlines and dreams into actual records.
18:47 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra javelin throw Live: Meet the global elite ahead of the main show
The NC Classic hosts a glittering field of javelin stars.

Thomas Röhler, the German Olympic champion, is making a comeback after battling injuries. He spoke passionately about India’s rising javelin prominence.

Julius Yego, Kenya’s former world champion, emphasized the event’s importance for globalizing the sport.

Americans like Curtis Thompson and Pole Cyprian Mrzyglód also confirm India’s emergence on the global circuit.

On the home scene, athletes like Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Sahil Silwal, and Yash Vir Singh will face off against decorated names, providing invaluable exposure.

This elite line-up not only raises competitive standards but offers a spectacle for fans and a growth path for Indian athletes.

Will Sachin surprise the veterans? Can Yego break new personal records? The mix of experience and emerging talent induces high intrigue and dramatic storylines.
18:45 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Live: Words from the man himself ahead of the mega event
Neeraj Chopra is no stranger to high-pressure situations, but this Saturday, he takes on a new challenge: organiser. While preparing for the men’s javelin event at 7 PM IST, Neeraj has also been involved in behind-the-scenes logistics—from stadium coordination to transport and athlete relations.

“Organising and playing together is tough…but I like it,” he said at the launch press conference. His gratitude extended to the Karnataka government and JSW Sports, whose unwavering support helped bring his vision to life.

This dual role gives Neeraj fresh insight into the operational aspects of elite sports, expanding his leadership beyond the field.

It mirrors elite athletes like Usain Bolt or Mo Farah, who have stepped into executive roles post-success. This hands-on experience could pave the way for future sporting events led by athletes, blending sporting authority with operational fluency.
18:43 (IST) Jul 05
Neeraj Chopra javelin throw Live: Hello and welcome to Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025
Hello and welcome to TimesofIndia.com for the live coverage of Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025

Tonight, we see history written in front of our eyes. On July 5, 2025, at Bengaluru’s iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium, India will welcome top-tier global javelin throwers for the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic, marking the nation’s first-ever World Athletics Continental Tour Gold‑level event.

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI), in partnership with JSW Sports, has brought world-class competition to Indian soil—an unprecedented step that places Bengaluru among elite athletic hubs like Doha and Paris. This ambitious move demonstrates a maturing sports eco-system in India while providing phenomenal exposure for domestic athletes.

With meticulous planning, cutting-edge facilities, and international compliance, the event sets a template for future athletics meets. The NC Classic is a clear signal that India is serious about becoming a major player on the global athletics stage, fostering local talent, boosting spectator interest, and inspiring long-term development across disciplines.
Neeraj Chopra javelin throw Live: Indian athletics is set to make history on Saturday, July 5, with the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 — a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold-Level event — held at Bengaluru’s iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium.

For the first time ever, India joins the ranks of global athletics hubs like Doha, Paris, and Nairobi in hosting a top-tier international meet.

Spearheaded by double Olympic medallist and World Champion Neeraj Chopra, and co-organised by JSW Sports, AFI, and World Athletics, the event brings together a world-class javelin lineup.

Fans can witness legends like Thomas Röhler (Olympic Champion), Julius Yego (World Champion), and American star Curtis Thompson, along with top Indian throwers including Rohit Yadav and Sachin Yadav.

The men’s javelin event — featuring Neeraj — kicks off at 7:00 PM IST and will be broadcast live on Star Sports and streamed via JioHotstar and World Athletics' official website.

More than just sport, the evening promises entertainment, with musical acts like Dhanda Nyoliwala, and a special felicitation for Neeraj’s legendary coach, Jan Zelezny.

As Chopra eyes his third consecutive win and builds toward the World Championships in Tokyo, fans can expect fireworks — on and off the field.