Neeraj Chopra seals historic silver

WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS | The 24-year-old, who had come into the showpiece as a hot medal favourite, produced a best throw of 88.13m, which came in the 4th round, to finish 2nd behind defending champion Anderson Peters of Grenada (90.54m)

- S KANNAN

WASHINGTON DC: Neeraj Chopra took billions of fans around the globe for one hell of a roller coaster ride. At the end of an energy-sapping contest, physically and emotionally for himself and the fans, the silver medal around his neck was just reward at the World Championships held in Eugene, Portland, United States of America.

It was Sunday morning back home in India. However, the Indian community in the United States, from East to West Coast, pretty far flung, were also fiddling with the TV remotes and cell phones on Saturday evening (local time) to catch the 24-year-old display his skills. The magic of Neeraj has transcended across the oceans. Out here, across the Atlantic as well, Neeraj Chopra fans are a passionate lot.

If the first throw was a foul, the excitement increased, as did the nervous energy being spent. Deep down, from Neeraj to billions praying for his success, all knew the 24-year-old could come up with that one magical fling of the javelin to seal a medal.

That happened with Neeraj’s fourth throw. The giant electronic scoreboard flashed 88.13 metres, which was a big relief. Neeraj could not hide the emotions, he yelled. The facial contours and the yell was a release of energy. It revealed how much he craved for this medal. There may be some who would have wanted to see the champion go over 90 metres but it’s not so easy.