The 28‑year‑old javelin ace was on track for a historic third straight Asian Games gold when a ligament tear in training pulled him out of the Games.
Chopra’s season‑best of 88.05m in Lausanne marked a high point, a throw that had everyone eyeing a podium finish before the injury cut his campaign short.
On the Khelo Bharat Podcast, he admitted the setback felt “difficult” and that he had to “accept” the disappointment, a rare moment of vulnerability from the Olympic gold‑medalist.
The injury struck after he had felt back to form, having thrown 88m again, and then hit a training session the next day – a cruel twist that robbed him of a chance to defend his title.
Looking ahead, Chopra is focusing on recovery, with eyes on the 2027 season and upcoming championships, hoping to return stronger and reclaim his place at the top of the javelin world.