Manu Bhaker broke India’s 12-year drought for an Olympic shooting medal, earning a bronze in the 10m air pistol event at the Paris Games on Sunday. This victory marks the first time an Indian woman has stood on the Olympic podium in this discipline. The last time Indian shooters clinched Olympic medals was in 2012, when Vijay Kumar and Gagan Narang each secured bronze at the London Games. Since then, Indian shooting teams went through two Olympic cycles without a medal.
At just 22 years old, Manu Bhaker faced intense competition and managed to score 221.7 points to secure her bronze medal. The gold went to Korea’s Jin Ye Oh, who set a new Games record with a score of 243.2, while her compatriot Kim Yeji took silver with 241.3 points.
Reflecting on her achievement, Manu Bhaker dedicated her medal to the nation, expressing immense gratitude for the support she received. She shared her thoughts on the pressure and excitement leading up to the finals, acknowledging the hard work and collective effort behind her success. “This medal is for all of us, not just for me,” she said, emphasizing the teamwork and support from her family, friends, and coach Jaspal Rana.
Manu sees her victory as just the beginning, hopeful for more Indian medals in the Paris Olympics. She spoke of the collective efforts of the Indian athletes and her commitment to continue performing at her best in upcoming events.
Grateful for the support from her close circle, Manu particularly thanked her family, friends, and coach Jaspal Rana for their unwavering support through tough times. “Thank you for standing by me during my difficult times. I wouldn’t be as strong as I am today without all of your support,” she said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended Manu Bhaker’s groundbreaking victory, emphasizing its importance as she became the first Indian woman to secure an Olympic shooting medal. He congratulated her on Twitter for earning India’s first medal at the Paris Olympics 2024, celebrating her outstanding accomplishment.
President Droupadi Murmu congratulated Manu Bhaker on her bronze medal, highlighting the significant inspiration it offers to many, particularly women athletes. She expressed her delight in Manu securing India’s first medal in the 10m Air Pistol event at the Paris Olympics, noting that this achievement will motivate numerous sportspersons, especially women.
Manu Bhaker’s bronze medal is not just a personal triumph but a moment of national pride, inspiring future generations of Indian athletes.
