Neeraj Chopra Sends Best Wishes to Indian Athletes at Asian Games 2026

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra has sent his best wishes to the Indian athletes participating in the Asian Games 2026, expressing confidence in their success. Despite his encouragement, Chopra will miss the event due to an ankle injury. The Games, taking place in Japan, will see India represented by a large contingent, led by kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat and Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker. Bhaker, reflecting on her role as flag-bearer, shared her emotional journey in the sport. India aims to exceed its previous medal tally from 2022, where they achieved a record 107 medals.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 19, 2026, 16:16 IST

Neeraj Chopra's Encouragement for Team India

Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra expressed his heartfelt wishes to the Indian athletes competing in the Asian Games 2026, expressing confidence in their ability to bring pride to the nation. He shared his message on the social media platform X, stating, "All my best wishes to the #TeamIndia at the Asian Games 2026! I’m sure they will all make us proud."

Details of the Asian Games 2026

The upcoming Asian Games are set to take place in Nagoya and Aichi, Japan, from September 19 to October 4. Indian athletes will participate in various sports, aiming to improve upon their past performances in this prestigious continental event.

Chopra's Absence Due to Injury

Despite his encouraging words, Chopra, who clinched gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and silver at the Paris 2024 Olympics in javelin throw, will not be competing in the 2026 Asian Games. He sustained an ankle ligament injury during training, which has sidelined him for the remainder of the season.

Leading the Indian Contingent

Kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat and Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker will lead the Indian team during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. The ceremony, held at the Paloma Mizuho Stadium, marked the official commencement of the 20th Asian Games, with India represented by a contingent of 503 athletes across 36 sports.

Manu Bhaker's Pride as Flag-Bearer

Manu Bhaker, a double Olympic medalist, is one of the standout athletes for India at the Games. She will compete in multiple events, including the women’s 10m air pistol and the 25m pistol. Reflecting on her role as a flag-bearer, Bhaker shared her emotional journey, stating, "When I found out I was chosen, I felt a heartwarming sense of pride and gratitude for how far I’ve come in my sport."

India's Medal Aspirations

India aims to surpass its previous medal tally from the 2022 edition, where they achieved a historic total of 107 medals, including 28 gold, 38 silver, and 41 bronze.