IBNS-CMEDIA: Indian Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra produced a commanding performance under testing conditions to win the silver medal in the men’s javelin throw event at the ongoing Commonwealth Games on Friday.
India enjoyed a successful outing in the event, with fellow javelin thrower Yashvir Singh clinching the bronze medal to ensure two Indians finished on the podium.
Chopra, who shot to global fame after winning the Olympic gold medal in Tokyo, registered his season’s best throw of 85.83m in his second attempt, which secured him the silver medal.
His performance in Glasgow was marginally better than his 85.69m effort at the Doha Diamond League on June 19, the only other competition he had participated in this season.
Making his Commonwealth Games debut, 24-year-old Yashvir Singh produced a personal best of 85.41m with his sixth and final throw to finish third.
Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage claimed the gold medal with a superb throw of 89.75m, achieved in his second attempt.
Pathirage had entered the Commonwealth Games as one of the favourites following a series of impressive performances on the international circuit, including the Diamond League.
Congratulating Chopra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X: “An outstanding Silver for Neeraj Chopra in the Men’s Javelin event at Glasgow! He has once again demonstrated remarkable consistency, composure and spirit. His successes make every Indian proud. My best wishes to him for the endeavours ahead. #CWG2026.”
In a separate post, Modi congratulated bronze medallist Yashvir Singh, saying: “Congratulations to Yash Vir Singh for winning the Bronze in the Men’s Javelin event! He produced an impressive throw, reflecting his zeal and dedication. His achievement will inspire many young athletes. All the best to him for the endeavours ahead.”
Apart from Chopra and Yashvir Singh, the third Indian finalist, Rohit Yadav, also remained in contention during the early stages before eventually finishing among the top six.
One of the biggest surprises of the competition came when Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem suffered an early exit.
After beginning with two foul throws, Nadeem managed only 77.41m in his third attempt and failed to qualify for the final eight, marking one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
