Neeraj Chopra, the defending champion, showcased his prowess as he advanced into the men’s javelin throw final of the Olympic Games with an outstanding performance of 89.34m on his initial attempt during the qualification round. Similar to his impressive showing in the Tokyo Olympics qualifiers, the 26-year-old surpassed the automatic qualifying distance of 84m with his first throw, securing the lead in Group B. This remarkable achievement, the second best of his career, dispelled any doubts about Chopra’s fitness following his disclosure of battling an adductor niggle prior to the Games. His personal record stands at 89.94m, achieved in 2022.
Chopra, the reigning world champion, dominated the combined qualification round of Group A and B with his exceptional throw. Anderson Peters of Grenada, a two-time world champion, secured the second spot in Group B with 88.63m and placed second overall. Julian Weber of Germany, winner of Group A with 87.76m, claimed the third overall position. Additionally, Nadeem of Pakistan, the reigning Commonwealth Games champion, secured his spot in the finals by throwing 86.59m in Group B.
Jakub Vadlejch from the Czech Republic, the silver medallist in the Tokyo Olympics and the only athlete to defeat Chopra this year in the Doha Diamond League, stood seventh overall with a throw of 85.63m in the first round. Unfortunately, Kishore Jena from India failed to qualify for the 12-man final after a disappointing throw of 80.73m, finishing ninth in Group A and 18th overall. Those who achieved a throw of 84m or more, or the top 12 performers from the combined Groups A and B, will progress to the final. Notably, nine athletes surpassed the automatic final round qualification distance, underscoring the competitive nature of the event.
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