Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra has suffered another injury setback, bringing his 2026 season to an early end.
The two-time Olympic medallist announced on Saturday that he sustained a ligament tear in his ankle during a training session. Following consultations with his doctor and support team, Chopra decided to withdraw from the remainder of the season.
The injury means Chopra will miss the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, where he was expected to lead India’s medal campaign in men’s javelin. He will also miss the Diamond League Final in Brussels on September 5, having already qualified for the event.
Injury comes after encouraging Lausanne performance
The setback comes at a particularly frustrating time for Chopra. The 28-year-old had recently shown signs of returning to top form at the Lausanne Diamond League, where he produced a season-best throw of 88.05 metres and finished second.
The Lausanne performance had raised hopes that Chopra was regaining his rhythm after a difficult period affected by injuries.
He had returned to competition in June at the Doha Diamond League following a lengthy injury layoff, finishing fourth with an 85.69m throw. He later won silver in Glasgow with an 85.83m effort before improving to 88.05m in Lausanne.
Chopra focuses on recovery
Announcing his withdrawal, Chopra expressed disappointment over the timing of the injury but said his priority is now rehabilitation.
He said he felt he was finally finding the momentum he had been searching for, but the latest setback forced him and his team to take a cautious approach.
His immediate goal will be to recover fully and return to competition stronger, rather than risk aggravating the injury by continuing his 2026 campaign.
Major setback for India at Asian Games
Chopra’s absence is a significant blow to India’s athletics campaign at the Asian Games, which are scheduled to begin in Japan on September 19.
The Olympic champion had been one of India's biggest medal prospects in the men's javelin event. His withdrawal now shifts greater attention towards other Indian throwers, including Rohit Yadav, who recently recorded a personal best of 87.68 metres.
Chopra has enjoyed a remarkable career, winning Olympic gold in Tokyo in 2021, silver at the Paris Olympics in 2024 and becoming the first Indian to win a World Athletics Championships gold in 2023.
For now, however, the focus for India's javelin icon is recovery and a stronger return to competition.
