‘Injury much better’: Neeraj Chopra on the road to recovery; to resume training and rehabilitation in the coming weeks

Neeraj Chopra (PTI Photo) New Delhi: Olympic and world javelin champion Neeraj Chopra said his recovery from injury is on track and the training, rehabilitation process will begin in the next few weeks. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medalist has kept next year as his goal after injury and is focused on putting in strong performances ahead of LA 2028.Chopra, who won gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics in men’s javelin, has been among India’s leading figures in recent years. However, Chopra missed the recent 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya after injuring ankle ligaments in training, which also ruled him out for the rest of the season.“My injury is much better now. Initially I faced some problems in the first month and a half but it has improved significantly. I consulted Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala and he advised me that now I can resume training and start proper rehabilitation. My plan is to start both in the next few weeks,” Neeraj told SAI Media.The two-time Olympic medalist clarified that he was taking complete rest as recommended by his medical team.“Due to my injury, the doctors advised me to rest and that’s exactly what I followed. As far as competitions are concerned, TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) and SAI (Sports Authority of India) have been supporting me for years. I have been a part of the TOPS Core Group for many years and whenever I need any support, they are there,” he added.In the absence of Neeraj and Kishore Jena, Yashvir Singh won the silver medal and Rohit Yadav the bronze in javelin at the 2026 Asian Games.Neeraj also welcomed the Union Cabinet’s approval of the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme on October 28, calling it a major step for Indian sports.“The Khelo India sports goods manufacturing scheme which has been approved by the Union Cabinet is a wonderful step. Sportspersons face many problems in procuring certain equipment in India or have to import sports equipment from abroad. With schemes like these, since the equipment will be manufactured in India, it will be much easier for them to get it,” he noted.He then went on to wish the Indian contingent for the upcoming Youth Olympic Games all the best, adding, “I wish all the best to the athletes heading to the Youth Olympics. Enjoy the experience and don’t put too much pressure and don’t be nervous. Any pressure you face in the Youth Olympics is good for you because it teaches you a lot. Use this opportunity to observe others and channel the pressure to your advantage.”