PM Narendra Modi hails Neeraj, Yashvir after India's javelin double at CWG
New Delhi, Aug 1
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Neeraj Chopra and Yashvir Singh after the Indian duo delivered a memorable double podium finish in the men's javelin throw at the Commonwealth Games 2026, praising their achievements as an inspiration for the country's young athletes.
Congratulating Yashvir on his bronze medal, the Prime Minister wrote, "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."
Modi also lauded Neeraj Chopra after the Olympic champion secured the silver medal, saying, "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."
Neeraj won silver with a season-best throw of 85.83m, but it wasn't enough to maintain his Commonwealth title. Sri Lanka's R.T. Pathirage delivered a remarkable Games record throw of 89.75m to take home the gold medal.
The Indian athlete started with a throw of 80.97m and then improved to 85.83m in his second attempt, which was his best effort in the competition. His other valid throws measured 81.29m and 80.73m, while his last two attempts were fouls.
India had a great showing in this important athletics event. Yashvir Singh secured the bronze medal with a personal best of 85.41m, finishing just 42cm behind Neeraj in a closely fought contest.
Pathirage's impressive 89.75m throw was unbeatable. He delivered the best performance of his career, surprising a strong field and grabbing the Commonwealth title.
Grenada's Anderson Peters came in fourth with 83.88m, followed by South Africa's Douw Smit with 82.88m and Trinidad and Tobago's Keshorn Walcott at 82.55m.
Even though Neeraj could not defend his title, India's dual podium finish, with the Olympic champion earning silver and Yashvir taking bronze, marked a successful outing in one of the Games' top athletics events. Pathirage's record-breaking performance was one of the biggest surprises of Glasgow 2026.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Yashvir's personal best of 85.41m is just amazing! Coming out of nowhere to take bronze. And Neeraj, even on an off day, still managed silver. These boys are an inspiration to every young athlete back home. The future of Indian athletics looks super bright! ✨
While I appreciate the PM's words, let's not forget that Neeraj is still our Olympic champion and has been consistently delivering. Yes, Pathirage was exceptional today, but one competition doesn't diminish Neeraj's greatness. Also, should we not be investing more in grassroots athletics to produce more Yashvirs? Just a thought.
Double podium in javelin! Who would have thought 10 years ago that India would have two guys over 85m in a major Games final? Neeraj starting a javelin revolution with his Tokyo gold, and now Yashvir following suit. So proud of our boys. The PM's quick acknowledgment shows the importance he gives to sports. 🙌
That throw from Pathirage was absolutely world-class. Hats off to him. But for India, this is still a historic result. We are now genuinely competing at the top level in track and field, not just cricket. Yashvir's bronze with a PB of 85.41m and Neeraj's superb consistency - this will motivate so many kids to pick up the javelin. Well done, boys!
Not denying the achievement, but 85.83m for Neer
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