Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra has offered an encouraging update on his recovery from an ankle injury, saying he is feeling much better and is targeting a strong comeback in 2027. The two-time Olympic medallist is hoping to return to top form after an injury brought his 2026 season to an early end.

Chopra sustained an ankle ligament tear during training in August, ruling him out of the 2026 Asian Games in Japan and the Diamond League Final. The setback came after he recorded a season-best throw of 88.05 metres at the Lausanne Diamond League, where he finished second.

With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, Chopra is prioritising his recovery as he looks to return to competition stronger next year.

“Absolutely, the Olympics are still some time away, as they’re in 2028. But as you probably know, I had an injury, and now I’m making my comeback. My ankle, which I injured, is feeling much better, and I’m recovering quite well.

“So, right now, the main focus is to make a strong comeback next year and deliver the performances that I haven’t been able to achieve so far,” Neeraj said while speaking at the launch of the 2026 Audi Q3 in Mumbai.

NEERAJ BACKS INDIA’S YOUNGSTERS

Despite missing the Asian Games, Chopra had reason to be encouraged by India's performance in the men's javelin throw. Yash Vir Singh won silver, while Rohit Yadav claimed bronze at the 2026 edition in Nagoya, ensuring India continued its medal-winning run in the event. Yash Vir registered a personal best of 85.72 metres, while Rohit managed a best throw of 84.35 metres. Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage won gold with 88.55 metres.

At the Hangzhou Asian Games in 2023, Chopra won gold with a throw of 88.88 metres, while Kishore Jena claimed silver with 87.54 metres. Their one-two finish was a memorable moment for Indian athletics. With both Chopra and Jena absent in 2026, the younger throwers stepped up to underline India's growing depth in the discipline.

“I think it wasn’t just Yashvir, but Rohit also put in a great performance. If we talk about the previous Games, we won two medals—one gold and one silver. And this time, even though neither Kishore nor I were competing, we still managed to win two medals,” Neeraj said.

“The emergence of these new and young athletes is a very positive sign for India. It shows that we have no shortage of talent in our country.

“I wish them all the very best for the future. I would just like to tell them to take care of themselves, stay injury-free, and enjoy their sport,” he added.

For Chopra, the immediate priority remains a full recovery and a return to competitive action. With the Los Angeles Olympics scheduled for 2028, the Indian star will hope to use the 2027 season to regain his rhythm and build momentum ahead of another Olympic campaign.

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