Neeraj Chopra finally breached the 90m mark in men’s javelin on Friday, May 16. Competing at the Doha Diamond League event, Neeraj’s third attempt landed at 90.23m, crossing the much-anticipated 90m barrier. Known for his exuberant celebrations on the track, Neeraj, however, celebrated in a subdued manner this time, with a sense of calm evident on his face.

The star Indian athlete lifted his arms in the air and offered a slight smile before walking over to the rest of the field, celebrating quietly by high-fiving a few of his competitors. Breaking the 90m mark lifted a huge weight off Neeraj’s shoulders, as he had long been questioned about when he would finally surpass that milestone.

Doha Diamond League: Highlights

Neeraj had previously spoken about the pressure of the growing anticipation. In 2024, he revealed that he too was eager to break the 90m barrier.

“This question, a lot of people have asked me since 2018 — when I threw 88.06m at the Asian Games. But then, a lot happened — my elbow injury, surgery. I’ve been stuck between 88m and 90m. But I really want to break this barrier. Last year, I said in this press conference that Doha is famous for 90m throws. But we weren’t lucky because of too much headwind. Maybe tomorrow will be better,” Neeraj had told the media in 2024.

That moment finally arrived at the Doha Diamond League 2025. Neeraj not only started strong with an 88.44m throw but also achieved a massive 90.23m in his third attempt.

With that throw, he became the first Indian ever to breach the 90m barrier in men’s javelin. He also became the 25th athlete in the world to achieve this feat. However, he was unable to better that mark in his subsequent attempts.

Neeraj Chopra in Doha Diamond League: Report

Neeraj Chopra joins the 90M ???????? ?? ?? ???? Neeraj Chopra finally broke the 90m barrier for the first time in his career, with a throw of 90.23 at the Doha Diamond League. #NeerajChopra pic.twitter.com/zopYfa45Xk— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) May 16, 2025

NEERAJ CHOPRA’S BEST THROWS

1. 90.23m Doha Diamond League 2025

2. 89.94m Stockholm Diamond League 2022

3. 89.49m Lausanne Diamond League 2024

4. 89.45m Paris 2024 Olympics – F

5. 89.34m Paris 2024 Olympics – Q

On Friday, Neeraj, however, was not able to win the Doha Diamond League, as a late attempt from Germany’s Julian Weber beat his 90.23m attempt. Weber threw his personal best 91.06m after threatening Neeraj with his incredible consistency.