Lausanne Diamond League: Neeraj Chopra finishes second behind Rumesh Pathirage

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Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra registered his strongest performance in over a year but was narrowly beaten to the top spot by rising Sri Lankan talent Rumesh Pathirage by just nine centimetres at the Lausanne Diamond League meeting on Friday.

The 28-year-old Chopra launched an 88.05m effort on his second attempt, securing second place in a star-studded nine-man field. The mark represented his best performance since recording 88.16m at the Paris Diamond League in June 2025, while also serving as his new season-best. However, 23-year-old Pathirage maintained his remarkable form, overtaking the Indian superstar with a third-round throw of 88.14m to claim victory. Grenada’s Anderson Peters finished third with an 86.69m attempt on his final throw, while Keshorn Walcott placed fourth at 83.71m. USA’s Curtis Thompson finished sixth with 78.13m, and Tokyo silver medallist Jakub Vadlejch took seventh with 77.32m.

Reflecting on the close contest, Chopra said it was a matter of centimetres between first and second spot.

“I didn’t realise it was only nine centimetres; it was really close, but I’m happy with the 88-metre throw. To be honest, it didn’t feel like it went 88m because I felt very relaxed. I tried really hard and later focused on my technique,” he said.

“With every competition, I feel that I’m coming back. The crowds in Lausanne and Zurich understand athletics and really support you, so it’s always good to compete here.” he added.

With his runner-up finish, Chopra climbed into the top five of the season-ending Diamond League Finals standings, strengthening his chances of qualifying for Brussels.

South Asian rivalry takes over the global stage

The showdown in Lausanne marked the third consecutive time this season that Pathirage has beaten the two-time Olympic medallist, following earlier victories in Doha and at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

Pathirage has dominated his rival this year, winning eight of his nine events, including a 92.62m throw in Rome. Meanwhile, Chopra continues his steady return after recovering from a lower-back issue that delayed his season debut.

“I can’t say my fitness is there like before. But I’m getting there slowly,” Chopra had said at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

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