Athletics

Neeraj Chopra Eyes Strong Return to Competition Following Ankle Injury

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 17, 2026, 23:32 IST

Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra is recovering well from an ankle injury that cut his 2024 season short, with the star javelin thrower now focused on a successful comeback next year.

Neeraj Chopra Eyes Strong Return to Competition Following Ankle Injury

Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra has provided a positive update on his recovery, confirming he is feeling significantly better following the ankle injury that forced him to prematurely conclude his 2024 season. The world champion javelin thrower, who secured a silver medal at the Paris Olympics earlier this year, has been sidelined since August after sustaining the injury during a training session.

The setback meant that Chopra was unable to compete in the Diamond League Final or represent India at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Despite the disappointment of missing these major events, the athlete remains optimistic about his long-term fitness and is now shifting his attention toward a productive return to the international circuit in the coming year.

Focusing on a Competitive Comeback

Speaking at a recent event, Chopra emphasised that his primary objective is to regain full fitness and replicate the high-level performances that defined his recent seasons. While acknowledging the long road ahead, he noted that he has ample time to prepare for the 2028 Olympic cycle. His current rehabilitation process is centered on ensuring he is fully prepared to return to top-tier competition without lingering physical concerns.

Chopra also took the opportunity to highlight the depth of talent emerging within Indian athletics. He specifically praised the efforts of Yashvir Singh and Rohit Yadav, who claimed silver and bronze medals respectively at the recent Asian Games. Reflecting on the team's success in his absence, he noted that the ability of younger athletes to step up and secure medals is a promising indicator for the future of the sport in the country.

Offering advice to the next generation of competitors, the veteran thrower stressed the importance of injury prevention and maintaining a passion for the sport. He expressed his support for the rising stars, noting that their recent achievements demonstrate that there is no shortage of potential in Indian athletics. As he continues his recovery, Chopra remains committed to his training regimen with the goal of returning to the field in peak condition for the upcoming season.