Neeraj and I deserve a medal, but if he is better than me I will respect that: Julian Weber

At the Diamond League Final in Zurich, Germany's Julian Weber emerged as the primary contender to World Champion Neeraj Chopra with the largest throw of the year, measuring 91.51 meters. In an interview with The Indian Express from his training base in Miyazaki, Japan, ahead of the Tokyo World Championships, Weber discussed joining the 90-meter club, his friendship with Chopra, the reasons why champions are coming from all over the world, and how growing up in a handball family affected him. Excerpts:The throw was at a decent angle technically.

The block (blocking leg) always gave me a little trouble, but that day it went better. The rhythm and build-up were fluid. In Doha, we also got a favorable backwind, which was beneficial.Julian Weber: Every action has an impact. I feel calmer and more at ease mentally during tournaments. I make an effort to concentrate more on the technique and myself. My technique has significantly improved, including how I approach the throw, the javelin's angle, how I hold it, putting my right leg closer to the throwing direction, being compact in the throwing posture, and throwing farther forward. In addition, I have been training for some time now without suffering any serious ailments. I am therefore happy, enjoying myself, and throwing far.