Neeraj Chopra Confirmed for Asian Games in Japan; Eyes Gold Defense!
Neeraj Chopra Confirmed for Asian Games in Japan; Eyes Gold Defense!
Javelin superstar Neeraj Chopra is officially set to compete in the Asian Games in Japan! Get ready for an epic comeback as he aims to defend his title. Don't miss the thrilling competition!
Indian javelin sensation Neeraj Chopra is officially confirmed to participate in the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, scheduled from September 19 to October 4, 2026. This exciting news was announced by Adille Sumariwalla, chairman of the Athletics Federation of India's (AFI) selection committee, much to the delight of fans across the nation.
Chopra, a two-time Olympic medallist, has been meticulously managing his recovery from a lower back injury sustained before the Tokyo World Championships in September 2025. His season began with a strong showing at the Doha Diamond League, where he secured fourth place with a throw of 85.69m. This performance, coming after a significant break, demonstrates his unwavering focus on performance.
Sumariwalla confidently stated, "Yes. He (Chopra) will participate both in the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games. He has qualified already and he is recovering. He has done 86m (85.69m) in his very first event, which is fantastic." He further added, "He won a gold with 88m (in the 2022 Asian Games in China), so he is already close to 86m, then we see no reason why he will not do well in both the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games."
The 28-year-old athlete had previously won gold at the last edition of the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, in 2023, with an impressive throw of 88.88m. His return to the Asian Games stage promises to be a thrilling spectacle, especially as he is expected to face formidable competitors.
Among the top contenders will be rising Sri Lankan star Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who has already breached the 90m mark this year and claimed two Diamond League titles, including the Doha event where Chopra competed. Additionally, Pakistan's Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem could also be in the mix, setting the stage for a highly competitive men's javelin throw event in Japan. The AFI's selection committee is set to finalize the Indian team for the Asian Games on June 28, 2026.
