Neeraj Chopra shares how a freak injury almost denied him a medal-laden javelin throw career

Olympic and World Champion Neeraj Chopra has revealed that an early injury once left doctors uncertain whether he’d ever be able to throw a javelin again. In a recent video posted on Duolingo English Test's Instagram handle, the athlete reflected on a wrist fracture he sustained not during training, but while playing on a basketball court. “It was an injury when I was not even training,” Neeraj shared. “I was doing mischief. I was holding the basketball ring while jumping and fell suddenly. My wrist was fractured and it had to be in plaster for a long time. It was the same hand that I used to throw the javelin.” The injury, he said, was more serious than it appeared. Doctors were initially unsure if he would regain full functionality, let alone return to competitive sport. “At that time, I felt like I would never be able to do it,” he admitted. Despite the bleak situation, Neeraj credited his mindset and dream of representing India for helping him push through. “As soon as I started feeling better, I knew I had to do it again. It was my dream that kept my mindset strong.” Now an Olympic gold medallist and world champion, Neeraj shared this story as part of a broader message to students and young athletes. He urged them to stay strong in the face of setbacks and not lose sight of their goals.He stressed that even the toughest setbacks can lead to powerful comebacks. This is a belief he continues to embody through his career.