Neeraj Chopra Set to Defend Title at Asian Games Amid Recovery

Neeraj Chopra's Upcoming Competitions

Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra is gearing up to defend his title at the Asian Games, scheduled to take place in Japan from September to October, as confirmed by Adille Sumariwalla, the chairman of the Athletics Federation of India's selection committee.

After dealing with a lower back injury sustained prior to the Tokyo World Championships in September 2025, Chopra made a comeback at the Doha Diamond League, where he secured fourth place with a throw of 85.69 meters.

The 28-year-old, who has won two Olympic medals, has already committed to participating in the Commonwealth Games but has not definitively stated his intention to compete in the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya from September 19 to October 4.

Sumariwalla stated, "Yes, he (Chopra) will take part in both the Commonwealth and Asian Games. He has qualified and is on the mend. Achieving 86 meters (85.69 m) in his first event is impressive."

Chopra previously clinched gold with a throw of 88 meters at the 2022 Asian Games in China, and with his recent performance, there are high hopes for his success in both upcoming events.

The selection committee of the AFI is anticipated to announce the Indian team for the Asian Games on Sunday, coinciding with the conclusion of the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships.

In the previous Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China, Chopra won gold with a remarkable throw of 88.88 meters.

At the Aichi-Nagoya event, he is likely to face competition from Sri Lanka's emerging star Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who has surpassed the 90-meter mark this year and has won two Diamond League titles, including the one in Doha where Chopra finished fourth.

Additionally, Pakistan's Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem, the reigning Asian and Commonwealth champion, may also compete, adding to the competitiveness of the men's javelin throw at the Asian Games. Nadeem withdrew from the Doha Diamond League on June 19 after initially being listed to participate.

The AFI has left the decision to Chopra regarding any competitions he may wish to enter before the Commonwealth Games, which will take place in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2.

Chopra was previously included in the 32-member Indian team for the Commonwealth Games.

Sumariwalla remarked, "We have given him the autonomy to decide on competitions before the CWG. His medical team and coach will collaborate to determine the best events for him to compete in."

He added, "The key was for him to qualify, which he has done. Now, we need to focus on ensuring he peaks for both the Commonwealth and Asian Games."