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Neeraj Chopra won the event with a best throw of 86.18 meters on his third attempt.
Neeraj Chopra was happy with the support in Bengaluru. (AFP Photo)
Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra felt a mix of satisfaction and reflection after his victory at the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic. Though pleased with the overall result, the reigning world champion admitted that his technique was not at its best and the conditions were less than ideal, which he believed hindered him from achieving a 90-meter throw.
Chopra excelled at the NC Classic 2025, clinching the title at the event named in his honour despite the breezy weather at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. The 27-year-old secured a winning throw of 86.18 meters on his third attempt.
“I felt like I should have definitely crossed 88 meters. The way I was feeling, even a 90-meter throw seemed possible. But the conditions weren’t ideal. My run-up wasn’t great today, and my technique was also not at its best – yet, despite that, I managed a good mark, so I’m quite happy,” Chopra told news agency IANS.
Earlier, at the press conference, Neeraj admitted, “Technically, I made a mistake at the start – my first throw was a foul, and I was veering to the left. My coach advised me to throw straight. There was a minor technical issue, but overall, it went well. I felt I could have thrown better, but I’m happy to have won the first edition. My biggest goal was to make this competition a success.”
The Neeraj Chopra Classic was co-organised by Neeraj along with the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and World Athletics. Initially planned for Panchkula’s Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Haryana, it was moved to Bengaluru’s Kanteerava Stadium due to floodlight issues at the former venue.
“The support here was really good. Initially, the plan was to host the event in Haryana, but due to technical issues with the lighting and stadium there, we shifted it. The stadium in Bengaluru was excellent, and I’ve been here several times before as well.
“Wherever we host the event in India… This time it was Bengaluru. We will try to organise it even better next time, whether it’s in Delhi, Haryana… I was really happy with the kind of public support we got. We will definitely try to host the next NC Classic in Haryana,” Neeraj told IANS when asked if the next edition could be hosted in Haryana.
Reflecting on taking on dual roles as organiser and competitor, Neeraj said, “The last few days were quite challenging for me. It felt a bit strange to compete in an event that carries my name. But I’m happy that I get to keep the medal and trophy from the first edition at home.”
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A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you live updates, breaking news, opinions and photos from the wide world of sport. Follow @News18Sports
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