Ace javelin thrower Annu Rani undergoes knee surgery

File Image: Annu Rani is a former Asian Games champion, having taken gold in 2022 and bronze in 2014. | Photo Credit: BISWARANJAN ROUT

Indian javelin star Annu Rani has come through knee surgery in Doha, Qatar, and promised to return stronger after sitting out the Asian Games in Japan.

The 34-year-old was left out of the recent Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya after she did not reach the qualifying standard set by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).

“I have successfully undergone my knee surgery in Doha. Now begins a new journey of patience, dedication, hard work, and recovery.

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“I know the road ahead will not be easy, but my determination to represent India once again remains stronger than ever,” she wrote on her social media handles, along with her picture at the hospital.

Annu won gold at the 2022 Asian Games and bronze at the 2014 edition. She also took a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

She said the knee injury had bothered her over the past year.

“For almost a year, I have been struggling with knee injuries and persistent pain. It has been one of the most challenging phases of my sporting career, as the pain made it difficult for me to train, compete, and continue doing what I love the most.

“Thank you to everyone who believed in me, supported me, and stood by my side. Your support means more than words can express. Surgery: Done, Recovery: ON.”