New Delhi: India’s Olympic and world champion javelin thrower… Neeraj Chopra It is set to return to competitive action on June 19 in the Doha Diamond League, which will make its first appearance in the 2026 athletics season.The official entry list for the prestigious one-day meet has confirmed Chopra’s participation. The Indian star is training in Switzerland to prepare for his comeback and will be eager to start the season strong.Neeraj has not competed since last year’s World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he endured a disappointing performance. His return to Doha will therefore be closely watched as he looks to regain momentum on the international circuit.The Doha Diamond League holds special significance for Chopra. Last year at the same event, he broke the coveted 90m mark for the first time in his career, capping his season’s best performance.Apart from the goal of a strong start, Chopra will also have an important goal in mind. The 27-year-old will be aiming to surpass the Glasgow Commonwealth Games qualification standard of 82.61m, which will secure his place in the multi-sport event.The men’s javelin field in Doha features several elite throwers, ensuring a tough test for the Indian athlete. Among those confirmed are Czech Republic’s Jakub Widlich, Kenya’s former world champion Julius Yego, Grenada’s Anderson Peters, Trinidad and Tobago’s Keshorn Walcott, Egypt’s Ahmed Sameh Mohammed Hussain, Sri Lanka’s Romesh Tharangapathiraj, Ukraine’s Kaurfner and American TV Ortho-Throw.The competition is expected to be fierce, with several athletes in the field having already recorded throws over the 85m mark this season. Pathirage entered the meet with a season’s best throw of 92.62m, indicating that Chopra would face him in his season opener.With a star-studded field and significant qualification marks on the line, all eyes will be on Chopra as he begins his 2026 campaign in Doha.
