when will Neeraj Chopra compete next after finishing 2nd in Diamond League Finals in Brussels?

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Neeraj Chopra has officially wrapped up his 2024 season following the Diamond League Finals in Brussels, where he competed with a fractured left hand. The Olympic gold medallist revealed that he sustained the injury just days before the event.

Yet, he still managed to finish as runner-up for the second year in a row, missing the Diamond League title by a single centimeter with a throw of 87.86m. This marked the end of a challenging season for Chopra, who has been battling fitness issues, including a persistent groin injury that has hampered his quest for the elusive 90-meter mark.

Chopra shared on social media, "This was the last competition of the year, and I wanted to end my season on the track. While I couldn't meet my own expectations, I feel this was a season in which I learned a lot." His determination to compete despite the fractured fourth metacarpal in his left hand showcased his tenacity, even though the injury is not in his throwing arm.

As Neeraj Chopra steps away from competition for the remainder of the year, all eyes are now on his potential return in 2025. It's unlikely he will participate in the indoor track and field season, which starts in February, as javelin throw events are rare indoors due to space constraints.

Traditionally, the Indian outdoor season begins in February-March but since his Tokyo Olympic triumph in 2021, Chopra has opted to start his season abroad. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has expressed a desire for him to compete domestically to connect with Indian audiences but it remains to be seen whether he will do so in 2025.

In terms of major international competitions, the 2025 season is packed with high-profile events. The World Athletics Championships will be held from August 31 to September 21, and the Diamond League series begins in April. While the exact Diamond League events featuring men's javelin are yet to be confirmed, Chopra's usual season opener over the last two seasons has been at the Doha Diamond League, making it a likely starting point again.

With a focus on recovery from both his hand and groin injuries, Chopra is poised to return stronger next season. As he said in his reflection, "2024 has made me a better athlete and person. See you in 2025." His journey in 2025 is expected to be as thrilling as ever, with his sights set on more titles and possibly breaching the 90-meter barrier.