When will Neeraj Chopra return to action? Star javelin thrower shares recovery update

Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra has offered an encouraging update on his recovery from an ankle injury, saying his rehabilitation is progressing well as he sets his sights on returning to competition next season.

The Indian javelin star suffered an ankle ligament tear during training in August, ruling him out of the 2026 Asian Games in Japan and the Diamond League Final. He is now focused on regaining full fitness, with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics remaining a major target.

Speaking at an event in Mumbai, Chopra said his injured ankle was feeling better and that his immediate priority was to make a strong return in 2027.

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

He added, “So, right now, the main focus is to make a strong comeback next year and deliver the performances that I have not been able to achieve so far," Chopra added.

Chopra encouraged by India's Asian Games show

Chopra's injury forced him to miss the Asian Games, but Indian athletes continued the country's medal-winning run in men's javelin at the 2026 edition in Nagoya.

Yash Vir Singh secured silver with a personal best of 85.72 metres, while Rohit Yadav won bronze with a throw of 84.35 metres. Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage claimed gold with an effort of 88.55 metres.

India's two-medal haul came despite the absence of Chopra and Kishore Jena, who had both been unavailable for the competition.

Reflecting on the performances, Chopra praised both Indian throwers and highlighted the team's consistency at the continental event.

“I think it was not 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," Chopra said.

Chopra will now look to complete his rehabilitation and return to action in 2027 as he builds towards the next Olympic Games.