Neeraj Chopra to miss season after ankle injury

India's Neeraj Chopra confirmed on Monday that a torn ankle ligament will keep him out of competition for the remainder of the 2026 season. The 28‑year‑old javelin thrower suffered the injury during a training session in Lausanne, Switzerland, and has been advised by doctors to rest until fully recovered.

Chopra is the face of athletics in the world’s most populous nation, having won gold in Tokyo 2021, India’s first Olympic track and field title, and silver in Paris 2024. His absence removes a key contender from the upcoming Asian Games, scheduled for next month in Aichi‑Nagoya, Japan, where he was slated to defend his title.

"It's disappointing, especially because I felt close to finding my rhythm," he said in a statement. "But, as they say, setbacks are part of the journey."

Recent form and the road to recovery

After a period of intensive training, Chopra recorded a season‑best throw in Lausanne, signalling a return to top form. He had previously captured silver at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this July, reinforcing his status as a consistent podium finisher.

Impact on upcoming competitions

The decision to sit out the rest of the season means Chopra will miss the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi‑Nagoya, a major regional event that often shapes Olympic prospects. Indian athletics officials will now look to other throwers to uphold the nation’s reputation in the discipline.

Chopra’s team has not ruled out a comeback for the 2028 Olympic cycle, but the focus for now is a full rehabilitation to prevent long‑term complications.