Neeraj Chopra clinch historic silver at World Athletics Championships

Eugene: Reigning Olympic Champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra once again scripted history as he clinched the silver medal with 88.13m throw at the World Athletics Championships here on Saturday (Sunday morning in India).

After clinching the silver, Chopra became the first men and the second Indian to win a medal at the world championships since Anju Bobby Gerage won bronze in the women triple jump event in 2003 in Paris.

Chopra made a disappointing start with a foul. The 24-year-old posted 82.39m and 86.37m in his second and third attempts, respectively and was trailing on fourth position.

Then, recorded the best throw of 88.13m in his fourth attempt. However, his last throw was recorded foul but he had done enough to win India its maiden silver medal at the world championships.

Another Indian in the fray, Rohit Yadav finished his campaign on tenth place with the best effort of 78.72m. His two earlier attempts measured 77.96m and 78.05m.

Anderson Peters successfully defended his title with massive 90.54m throw. Olympic silver medallist Jukub Vadlejch bagged bronze with 88.9m. (UNI)