Neeraj Chopra set to restart training and rehabilitation within weeks after ankle injury
Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra said on October 30, 2026 that he hopes to resume training and rehabilitation in the next couple of weeks after making significant progress in recovering from an ankle injury sustained during a training session in August that forced him to miss the Asian Games in Japan and ended his 2026 season early. He said orthopaedic surgeon Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala has given him the go-ahead to restart training and begin rehabilitation.
The injury, picked up in August, ruled Chopra out of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games and the Diamond League finale. His most recent competition appearance came at the Lausanne Diamond League on August 21, where he finished second, and earlier in July he won silver at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The enforced absence brought his 2026 campaign to an early close.
On his recovery, Chopra told Sports Authority of India (SAI) Media: "My injury is much better now. I faced some issues initially in the first month and a half, but it has improved significantly." He added: "I consulted Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala and he has advised that I can now resume training and begin proper rehabilitation. My plan is to start both in the next couple of weeks."
Chopra described his approach to recovery, saying he followed medical advice to rest and paused training to allow healing. He also referenced institutional support, noting: "With regard to competitions, TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) and SAI (Sports Authority of India) have been supporting me for years. I have been part of the TOPS Core Group for many years now, and whenever I need any support, they are there."
Separately, Chopra welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval of the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme on October 28, saying the move would ease access to equipment for athletes. The scheme carries a budgetary outlay of more than Rs 1,800 crore and aims to establish India as a major sports goods manufacturing hub over the next decade. He commented: "The Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme, which was approved by the Union Cabinet, is an amazing step. Athletes face a lot of issues in procuring certain equipment in India or have to import sporting equipment from abroad. With schemes like these, as equipment will be manufactured in India, it will become much easier for them to source it."
Chopra also sent his best wishes to the 17-member Indian contingent set to compete at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, beginning on Saturday, and offered advice drawn from his experience. "I wish all the best to the athletes heading to the Youth Olympics. Enjoy the experience and don't take too much pressure or get nervous. Whatever pressure you face at the Youth Olympics is good for you as it teaches you a lot. Use this opportunity to observe others and channel the pressure to your advantage, and I am sure you will do your best."
Chopra’s confirmed next step is to commence both training and a structured rehabilitation programme in the next couple of weeks, following Dr Pardiwala’s clearance.