Zurich, August 28, 2025: Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra had to settle for second place at the Diamond League Finals for the third straight year, as Germany’s Julian Weber produced a commanding performance with back-to-back 90m-plus throws to clinch his maiden trophy.
Chopra managed a best effort of 85.01m in his final attempt, moving past 2012 Olympic champion Keshorn Walcott (84.95m) to secure silver. Defending champion Anderson Peters of Grenada finished fourth with 82.06m.
Weber stole the show early with a 91.37m opener followed by a career-best 91.57m in his second attempt. He added throws of 83.66m, 86.45m, and 88.66m to underline his dominance, finishing over six metres clear of Chopra.
For Chopra, known for his consistency beyond 88m, it was an uncharacteristic outing. He opened with 84.35m, followed by 82m and a foul, before two more failed attempts and his last-round recovery to 85.01m.
“This was not too bad. But we are getting close to the World Championships, so I still need to throw a little bit further,” Chopra said afterwards. “I am happy for Julian today. He threw really far. At major championships, though, the gold is more important than the distance, and I will try my best to win the medal in Tokyo.”
The Zurich result continues Weber’s strong season against Chopra. The German now leads their 2025 head-to-head 3-1, having earlier beaten him in Doha (May) and Chorzow (May), while Chopra triumphed in Paris (June). However, Chopra still dominates their overall rivalry, 15-5 since 2016.
Both men breached the coveted 90m mark for the first time this season in Doha, with Chopra throwing 90.23m but still finishing behind Weber’s 91.06m. Weber has now registered three 90m-plus throws this year.
Chopra, who last competed at the NC Classic in Bengaluru (July 5) with a winning throw of 86.18m, heads to Tokyo next as the defending World Champion (September 13–21).
