Asian Games 2026: Rohit Yadav ready to step up in Neeraj Chopra’s absence

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Indian javelin thrower Rohit Yadav insists he feels no pressure heading into the Asian Games 2026, where he and teammate Yashvir Singh step into the void left by Indian star Neeraj Chopra, who ended his 2026 season early due to injury.

Speaking after topping the javelin standings with an 81.10 meter mark at the Indian Athletics Series Final in New Delhi, Rohit outlined his targets for the mega event in Japan. 

“There is no pressure. I will play freely there. There is pressure in big competitions always. We always get a medal in javelin throw, and it is expected whenever Neeraj plays. We would also try to get a medal for India,” he said.

Looking back at his seventh-place finish at the Commonwealth Games 2026, where his best attempt reached 81.56 meters, Rohit said he was proud of his effort despite difficult weather conditions.

“I was doing well before CWG. But my rhythm was not really good at the CWG, and that is why I could not throw that well. I am trying to do well in upcoming competitions. My preparations are good. It was cold; I was playing in such weather for the first time. The run-away also got a bit bad,” he added.

Rohit Yadav hoping to push himself in Neeraj Chopra’s absence

Rohit added that the event in New Delhi was an important trial run ahead of the Asian Games in Japan.

“You get to check yourself on where you are lacking and what you can work on. In training, we cannot do as much as we do in the competition. Today, I was happy that I could get four throws of 80-plus. If I put more effort, I will throw better.”

Talking about the rise of Asian throwers like Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem and Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage, Rohit praised Neeraj Chopra for transforming the sport in South Asia and taking athletics and the javelin throw to a world stage.

“It was he who started winning medals at all the world competitions, such as the Olympics, World Championships, Diamond League, etc. We all feel really motivated seeing him,” he signed off.

(With inputs from ANI)

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