Daijiworld Media Network - Doha

Doha, Jun 20: India’s javelin star Neeraj Chopra made a successful return to competitive action after a nine-month injury layoff, finishing fourth at the Doha Diamond League 2026 while securing qualification for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

The Olympic and World Championship medallist, who was returning from a back injury that delayed the start of his season, showed promising form against a strong international field despite missing out on a podium finish.

Competing for the first time in nine months, the 28-year-old began his campaign with a foul throw before finding his rhythm with an 82.77-metre effort in his second attempt.

The throw helped Chopra clear the Athletics Federation of India’s Commonwealth Games qualifying mark of 82.61m, confirming his place for the Games scheduled to be held in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2.

Chopra produced his best performance in the third round, sending the javelin to 85.69m. Although the effort was not enough for a medal, it highlighted his ability to compete at the highest level despite limited preparation.

His best throw was just 0.30 metres behind American Curtis Thompson, who finished third with an 85.99m effort.

Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage stole the spotlight in Doha, winning the men’s javelin event with a world-leading throw of 88.68m. Former world champion Anderson Peters of Grenada finished second with 86.38m, while Thompson claimed third place.

Doha Diamond League 2026 – Men’s Javelin Top Four

Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage (Sri Lanka) – 88.68m
Anderson Peters (Grenada) – 86.38m
Curtis Thompson (USA) – 85.99m
Neeraj Chopra (India) – 85.69m

Chopra’s fourth-place finish may not match his usual podium standards, but the performance marked a positive beginning to his comeback journey. More importantly, he completed the competition without any fresh injury concerns and showed signs of regaining his rhythm.

With the Commonwealth Games and other major international events ahead, Chopra’s Doha outing could prove to be an important step in his return to peak form.