Neeraj Chopra reflects on 10-month injury battle after Commonwealth Games silver

India javelin ace Neeraj Chopra reflected on an injury-hit 10 months in an Instagram post on August 4 after winning silver at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, saying the result meant more than the distance recorded.

The 28-year-old, a two-time Olympic medallist and 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallist, posted photos and videos charting his recovery, training and competition moments and wrote: “There are throws that travel far and then there are moments that carry the weight of an entire journey. This one means so much more than the distance.”

Chopra described the last 10 months as a period of testing and uncertainty and reflected on rebuilding his body and regaining competitive rhythm: “The past 10 months has tested me in ways I never expected. Recovering from multiple injuries, rebuilding my body, finding my rhythm again and learning to be patient when all I wanted was to compete. I was training every day without knowing if I will even have a season to compete this year,” he wrote.

He also noted the personal satisfaction of returning to top-level competition, writing: “To be back competing at this level feels good.” In the same post Chopra credited support staff and family for his rehabilitation.

Chopra thanked his physiotherapist in the post and acknowledged long-term support from his coach and family, writing: “My physio, Ishaan ji who has been by my side every step of the recovery, helping me get back to doing what I love.” “My coach, Jai, who has been with me since the very first time I picked up a javelin. My family, that always stand strong with me no matter what the circumstances are.” He closed the message with: “Thank you everyone for your support and blessings. The season continues, one step at a time.”

The Instagram post drew public responses from fellow athletes and supporters; German javelin thrower Julian Weber commented, “I feel you. Such a great mindset you have and comeback you did!” Several Indian athletes and personalities, including former Asian Games medallist Jinson Johnson, also congratulated him.

Chopra clinched a silver medal in the 2026 Glasgow edition with a season-best throw of 85.83m. Chopra will next be in action at the Lausanne Diamond League on August 21.