Neeraj Chopra created history on Saturday, bringing India its first gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and also the country's second individual gold medal in Olympic history after Abhinav Bindra's heroics in Beijing 2008.

Moreover, the 23-year-old javelin throw athlete has become the first Indian to win an Olympic gold in athletics.

Neeraj registered a best attempt of 87.58 to finish ahead of Czech Republic duo of Jakub Vadlejch and Vitezslav Vesely to bag the gold medal.

This historic victory took India's medal tally to seven in the ongoing Games– the country's highest tally ever, beating the tally of six medals won at the London Games in 2012.

Chopra started off with a throw of 87.03, taking the lead after the first round of throws itself. If that was a good start, he went even better with his second throw of 87.58. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "History has been scripted at Tokyo! What @Neeraj_chopra1 has achieved today will be remembered forever. The young Neeraj has done exceptionally well. He played with remarkable passion and showed unparalleled grit. Congratulations to him for winning the Gold. #Tokyo2020."

President Ram Nath Kovind tweeted from his official handle, "Unprecedented win by Neeraj Chopra!Your javelin gold breaks barriers and creates history. You bring home first ever track and field medal to India in your first Olympics. Your feat will inspire our youth. India is elated! Heartiest congratulations!"

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu said the gold medal won by Neeraj Chopra "ended a long wait" by India.

"What an incredible achievement! @Neeraj_chopra1 scripted history and brought glory to India by winning the gold medal in the Javelin throw at Tokyo Olympics. His outstanding feat has ended a long wait by India for an Olympic medal in track & field events. #Tokyo2020 #NeerajChopra," his official handle tweeted.

"His extraordinary success fills the hearts of fellow-Indians with boundless joy and pride. Wishing him success for future endeavours! #Tokyo2020," the Vice-president added.

Image courtesy: AP