Neeraj Chopra Opens Up on Injury Fears After Commonwealth Games Silver: 'I Was Scared'

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra has revealed that overcoming mental doubts was a bigger challenge than winning a medal as he returned to the podium with a silver medal in the men's javelin throw at the Commonwealth Games 2026.

The Indian star admitted he was "scared" of suffering another injury every time he began his run-up in Glasgow, making the silver medal one of the most emotionally significant achievements of his recent career.

A Comeback Beyond the Medal

Neeraj's best throw of 85.83 metres earned him the silver medal, marking his first podium finish at a major international event in nearly a year.

While Sri Lanka's Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage clinched gold with 89.75m, India's Yash Vir Singh secured bronze with a personal best of 85.41m, giving India a memorable double podium finish in the men's javelin event.

For Chopra, however, the biggest victory was regaining confidence after months of injury setbacks.

'I Was Scared Every Time I Ran'

Speaking after the event, Neeraj acknowledged that lingering injury concerns had affected both his physical approach and mental confidence.

He revealed that recurring lower back issues, which have troubled him since last year, made him cautious throughout the competition.

According to Chopra, he deliberately avoided attacking the runway at full speed because he wanted to keep his body under control and reduce the risk of another injury.

Despite those concerns, he was pleased to return to the podium and said his comeback is progressing in the right direction.

Mental Recovery Has Been the Biggest Challenge

Neeraj explained that when an athlete is fully fit, confidence naturally follows. Injuries, however, create hesitation and fear that can affect performance even after returning to competition.

He admitted that although he competed in the Doha Diamond League earlier this year, Glasgow was another important step in rebuilding trust in his body.

The Olympic champion said every competition is helping him regain confidence little by little.

Season's Best Gives Hope Ahead of Asian Games

Although Neeraj believes he has not yet returned to peak fitness, he described his season-best performance as an encouraging sign.

He plans to compete in upcoming Diamond League events before the Asian Games, where he hopes to further improve both his fitness and throwing distance.

The 28-year-old said gradual improvement remains his priority rather than rushing back to his absolute best.

India's Double Podium in Javelin

The evening also marked a breakthrough for Yash Vir Singh, who impressed with a personal best throw of 85.41m to win bronze in his Commonwealth Games debut.

Meanwhile, Rohit Yadav finished seventh with a best effort of 81.56m.

Pakistan's defending champion Arshad Nadeem endured a disappointing outing, finishing outside the medal positions.

A Meaningful Return

Neeraj Chopra's silver medal may not have been another gold, but it represented something equally valuable—a successful return after one of the most difficult phases of his career.

Having battled injuries and self-doubt over the past 18 months, the Olympic champion has now taken an important step toward regaining his best form ahead of major international competitions.

FAQs

Which medal did Neeraj Chopra win at the Commonwealth Games 2026?

Neeraj Chopra won the silver medal in the men's javelin throw.

What was Neeraj Chopra's best throw?

His best throw measured 85.83 metres, which also became his season's best.

Why did Neeraj Chopra say he was scared?

He revealed that recurring injuries made him cautious and fearful of getting injured again while competing.

Who won gold in the men's javelin throw?

Sri Lanka's Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage won the gold medal with a throw of 89.75 metres.

Who won bronze for India?

India's Yash Vir Singh secured the bronze medal with a personal best throw of 85.41 metres.