'I Got Overconfident': Rohit Yadav Opens Up on Medal Miss at Commonwealth Games

Indian javelin thrower Rohit Yadav has candidly admitted that overconfidence and an aggressive approach during the Commonwealth Games final cost him a chance of standing on the podium, saying the experience has taught him valuable lessons ahead of the upcoming Asian Games.

The 27-year-old, who finished seventh with a best throw of 81.56 metres, acknowledged that he made the mistake of chasing Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage, whose massive 89.75m effort secured the gold medal. India's Neeraj Chopra (85.83m) claimed silver, while Yashvir Singh (85.41m) took bronze.

Speaking after returning from Glasgow, Rohit revealed that he felt confident after producing his second-round throw, believing it would comfortably keep him among the top eight. Instead of consolidating his position, he decided to attack with his remaining attempts in search of a much bigger distance.

The decision backfired.

Rohit said his mindset shifted after Pathirage's huge throw, admitting he even wanted to surpass what Neeraj Chopra could achieve on the day. Looking back, he described that thought process as a sign of overconfidence that ultimately affected his performance.

His remaining attempts failed to improve his standing, with two fouls and two throws falling well below his best effort.

The Indian thrower also pointed to difficult competition conditions, including strong headwinds and a worn-out runway, which forced athletes to constantly adjust their technique. He revealed that Neeraj had advised fellow competitors to release the javelin at a lower angle because of the wind, but getting the adjustment right proved challenging.

Despite the disappointment, Rohit believes the setback could become an important turning point. With the Asian Games in Japan next month fast approaching, he said his priority is to prepare for every possible weather and competition condition so that external factors do not affect his performance again.

Rohit, whose 87.05m throw at the National Inter-State Championships in June remains the best by an Indian this season, is determined to use the lessons from Glasgow to mount a stronger challenge at the continental event.