Neeraj Chopra wins a historic gold medal in men's Javelin Throw event

On Saturday, India scripted history as Neeraj Chopra became the first from the country to win a Gold medal in track and field post Independence. The 23-year-old won the Men's Javelin Gold medal, taking India's tally past their previous best of 6 from London 2012.

The Indian came into the competition as one of the favourite and he truly lived up to the expectations of billions back in India. Right from his first throw, he dominated the show. He threw 87.03 with his first throw. His second throw was even better as got a distance of 87.58m. Chopra was disappointed with his last throw. He threw 76.79m.

Neeraj Chopra, who ended India's 121-year wait for an athletics medal with his gold in the javelin final, has earned praises from all corners. Social media has been flooded with congratulatory messages for him.

The 23-year old had beaten Germany’s Johannes Vetter, who finished at second place with an 85.64m throw

Earlier, India's highly-rated wrestler Bajrang Punia won the Men's 65kg Freestyle Bronze, taking India's tally to 6. The 27-year-old might have lost the opportunity to win gold but he took home bronze with a fine display.