Injury forces Chopra to miss 2026 Asian Games defence

Neeraj Chopra's pursuit of a third consecutive Asian Games gold medal in javelin has been derailed by injury, forcing the Indian athlete to sit out the 2026 edition in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The two-time defending champion's absence represents a significant blow to India's medal prospects in the sport at the continental Games.

Chopra's injury troubles have become an increasingly familiar narrative for the accomplished thrower, who won Olympic silver at Tokyo 2020 before claiming back-to-back golds at the 2018 and 2022 Asian Games. The recurring fitness challenges have interrupted what might have been a sustained spell of dominance at the Games level.

The 26-year-old remains one of India's most prominent track and field athletes and a crucial figure in the country's Olympic ambitions. However, managing his physical condition has emerged as a critical concern for both the athlete and India's sports establishment as major international competitions approach.

Chopra's unavailability for the 2026 Games opens the javelin competition to rival nations in the region, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in one of Asia's marquee athletic events. His recovery timeline and return to competition remain uncertain as he focuses on rehabilitation.