Nineteen-year-old Neeraj Chopra set an Under-20 world record in the Javelin Throw event after winning the gold with a throw of 86.48 metre in the final of the World U20 Championships in Bydgoszcz in Poland on Saturday.
The 19-year-old from Haryana set the record in his second attempt after throwing a distance of 79.66 metre in his first and 78.36 metre in his third. Chopra’s record-breaking attempt surpassed the old mark of 84.69 metres held by Latvian Zigismunds Sirmais.
"I was hoping to throw far but I never expected to throw over 86 metres and break the world U20 record,” said Chopra, in a statement.
Chopra became the first Indian athlete to set a world record at any level, either senior or junior, and also the first Indian athlete to become a world champion in an event.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!