Neeraj Chopra has not only become the face of Indian athletics but has also redefined the possibilities for javelin throwers from non-traditional nations.
From humble beginnings in 2013 to becoming an Olympic and World Champion, his journey has been marked by consistent improvement, technical refinement, and historic achievements.
The visual timeline of Neeraj Chopra’s best throws season-by-season from 2013 to 2025 offers a fascinating look into the evolution of a generational athlete. Let’s dive into what the numbers tell us and how they reflect his growth and global rise.
2013–2015: The Raw Beginnings
- 2013: 69.66m
- 2014: 70.19m
- 2015: 81.04m
Neeraj’s early years saw steady growth. At just 15 in 2013, he was already throwing close to the 70m mark, a sign of his natural arm strength and raw potential. By 2015, he shattered the 80m barrier with a best of 81.04m, marking a significant turning point. That leap in distance hinted at what lay ahead India had found a rare talent capable of competing on the world stage.
2016–2017: Announcing Himself to the World
- 2016: 86.48m
- 2017: 85.63m
The 2016 season saw Neeraj truly arrive, winning the World U20 Championship in Poland with a then-world junior record of 86.48m—a distance that remains one of the longest throws ever by a junior. He ended the season with the same mark, showing that he could deliver under pressure.
Though 2017 didn’t surpass 2016’s mark, Neeraj maintained his form, showing consistency with a best throw of 85.63m. He had established himself as India’s top javelin prospect, and the global athletics community was taking notice.
2018–2019: Consistency and Asian Supremacy
- 2018: 88.06m
- 2019: Did not compete due to injury
2018 was a banner year. Neeraj won gold at both the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games, throwing a season-best of 88.06m. The performance marked his transition from a talented thrower to an elite global competitor.
In 2019, however, Neeraj suffered a significant elbow injury requiring surgery, sidelining him for the entire season. Many feared it could disrupt his upward trajectory.
2020–2021: The Comeback and Olympic Glory
- 2020: 87.08m
- 2021: 88.07m
After a year out, Neeraj returned strong in 2020 with a best of 87.08m, showcasing his resilience post-injury. In 2021, he inched closer to his personal best with 88.07m a vital sign ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.
On August 7, 2021, Chopra created history by winning India’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics, launching a throw of 87.58m in the final. While not his longest, it was the most significant throw of his career, earning him global recognition and status as a national icon.
2022–2023: Entering the 89m Club
- 2022: 89.94m
- 2023: 88.88m
Neeraj touched new ground in 2022, launching the javelin 89.94m his personal best and India’s longest-ever throw. That mark remains the highest by an Indian and is just shy of the elusive 90m club.
In 2023, he remained a dominant force, winning gold at the World Athletics Championships, a historic first for India. Though his season-best dipped slightly to 88.88m, he proved his mettle by delivering when it mattered most.
2024–2025: Still Elite, Still Improving
- 2024: 89.49m
- 2025: 90.23m
At a time when many javelin throwers plateau, Neeraj continued to improve. In 2024, he maintained his elite form with 89.49m, staying firmly among the top throwers globally.
Then came 2025, and with it, another milestone—90.23m. Finally breaching the 90m barrier, Neeraj joined the league of legends. It’s a feat only a few in history have achieved, including Jan Železný, the world record holder and Neeraj’s inspiration.
This historic mark not only cemented his legacy but also silenced doubters who questioned whether an Indian thrower could ever reach such heights.
What Makes Neeraj Special?
- Consistency: Only three years since 2018 have seen Neeraj throw under 88m, showcasing an elite level of reliability few can match.
- Resilience: Comebacks from major injury in 2019 and staying at the top till 2025 highlight his physical and mental strength.
- Timing: He delivers in major events—Olympics, World Championships, Diamond League, Asian Games. Not all athletes can do that.
- Growth Mindset: Year-on-year improvement despite already being among the best. His ability to refine technique, build strength, and adapt to competition is elite.
Legacy and the Road Ahead
Neeraj Chopra is more than just a medal-winning athlete. He’s the beacon of Indian athletics a symbol that world-class success is possible in sports outside cricket. His presence has inspired an entire generation to believe in field events and track & field as a viable professional pursuit.
At 27, Neeraj still has several prime years ahead. The next goal? Crossing 91 or even 92 meters, perhaps chasing Železný’s all-time record of 98.48m. The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and World Championships remain on the horizon.
From 69.66m in 2013 to 90.23m in 2025, Neeraj Chopra’s career graph is nothing short of extraordinary. Each season tells a story not just of distance, but of dedication, evolution, and national pride. His javelin doesn’t just fly it soars with the weight of a billion dreams.
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