Neeraj Chopra Nears Return After 232-Day Injury Layoff

Olympic and world javelin champion Neeraj Chopra is nearing a return to competition after a 232-day absence, during which he underwent rehabilitation for groin, back, and ankle injuries, according to sources within the Athletics Federation of India. The 28-year-old has not competed since finishing eighth at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo in September 2023, marking his first podium miss since his 2021 Olympic gold.

Chopra has shifted his training base to Antalya, Turkey, where he is working with coach Jaiveer Chaudhary and physiotherapist Ishaan Marwaha on controlled recovery and technical adjustments, particularly to his blocking mechanics after the throw. He has replaced long-distance running with sprint-based conditioning to reduce physical strain and is transitioning from general fitness to event-specific preparation.

Potential comeback events include the Irena Szewinska Memorial in Poland on May 29, the Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland on June 3, the Ostrava Golden Spike in Czechia on June 16, or the FBK Games in the Netherlands on June 21, though no official confirmation has been made. The Doha Diamond League, initially considered, was postponed to June 19 due to the West Asia conflict.

Chopra’s immediate focus is on defending his Asian Games title in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, while planning for sustained performance through to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Officials confirm his rehabilitation is nearly complete and that a gradual return via lower-pressure meets is preferred to rebuild competitive rhythm.

The Athletics Federation of India and Chopra’s support team will finalize his competition schedule in the coming days, with an official announcement expected shortly after his return to India.