NEW DELHI: Neeraj Chopra will not participate in the upcoming edition of the 36th National Games despite the Indian Olympic Association’s (IOA) diktat making it “necessary” for the country’s eminent athletes to compete in the multi-sport event, scheduled from September 29 to October 12 in six cities of Gujarat.
For Neeraj, it’s important to give his “tired” body ample rest and recovery period for the tough challenges ahead next year. The current season — during which he won the historic silver medal at the World Championships in Eugene and the prestigious Diamond League Trophy on late Thursday — has been hectic..
“As per my schedule planned at the start of the year, this was supposed to be my last event of the season. I would have participated at the Asian Games around this time but that was postponed. We already knew about it, so my season ended with the Zurich event. The dates for the National Games were announced recently. I have consulted with my coach (Dr Klaus Bartonietz) and he advised me to rest and prepare for the crucial season next year, which includes the World Championships and Asian Games”, Neeraj said.
"I have just recovered from a groin injury. If I train and compete, it could become risky. My uncle and friends have travelled from India and are here in Zurich. So, I will be vacationing with them for one or two weeks before returning to India. After that, I will come back home to begin my rehabilitation programme,” Neeraj said.
