'One step at a time' - Neeraj Chopra reflects on injury-ridden last 10 months after CWG silver
(Courtesy : @neeraj____chopra/Instagram)
Chopra bagged silver in Glasgow with a season-best throw of 85.83m
India’s star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has opened up about the physical and mental challenges he faced over the last 10 months, sharing an emotional message on social media after returning to top-level competition, winning a silver medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
In an Instagram post shared on August 4, Chopra reflected on his comeback journey and said the achievement meant far more than the distance on the scoreboard.
Along with the message, the two-time Olympic medallist shared photos and videos documenting his recovery, training sessions, competition moments and celebrations.
“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 wrote.
The 28-year-old revealed that the past 10 months tested him in ways he never expected. He said he was recovering from multiple injuries while rebuilding his body, finding his rhythm again and learning to be patient despite wanting to compete.
“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.
Related: Neeraj Chopra to participate in Lausanne Diamond League 2026
Chopra added that simply being back competing at the highest level was a significant milestone. “To be back competing at this level feels good.”
The 2018 CWG gold medallist also acknowledged the people who helped him through his rehabilitation.
He thanked his physiotherapist, Ishaan, for supporting him throughout the recovery process. “My physio, Ishaan ji who has been by my side every step of the recovery, helping me get back to doing what I love.”
Chopra also thanked his coach Jai, saying he has been with him since the first time he picked up a javelin. He also expressed gratitude to his family for standing by him through every challenge.
“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 concluded the post by thanking fans for their continued support. “Thank you everyone for your support and blessings. The season continues, one step at a time.”
Related: Reasons why Neeraj Chopra failed to win gold in javelin throw final at Commonwealth Games 2026
The heartfelt post received praise from fellow athletes, sporting organisations and fans.
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 the javelin star.
As the athletics season continues, Chopra’s message offered fans a glimpse into the work behind his return and highlighted the perseverance required to compete again at the highest level.
What did Neeraj Chopra say in his post on Instagram?
“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. 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 ever have a season to compete this year. To be back competing at this level feels good. None of this would have been possible on my own. I’m deeply grateful for the people who never stopped believing in me. 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. Thank you everyone for your support and blessings. The season continues, one step at a time.
How did Neeraj Chopra perform at the 2026 Commonwealth Games?
Chopra clinched a silver medal in the 2026 Glasgow edition, with a season-best throw of 85.83m.
When will Neeraj Chopra be in action next?
Chopra will next be in action at the Lausanne Diamond League on August 21.
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Haritmaa Sharma is an aspiring sports journalist with hands-on experience in investigative reporting, digital content creation, and event coverage. Passionate about telling stories that go beyond the scoreboard—especially in cricket, racket sports, grassroots football, and emerging sports narratives.