Indian shooting sensation Manu Bhaker has etched her name in history as the first Indian woman to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Bhaker shared her journey to the podium at the recently concluded Paris Olympics 2024, where she secured two bronze medals.
Bhaker’s Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020 ended in heartbreak due to a pistol malfunction. However, she returned to Paris with a renewed determination and a meticulously planned training regime. “We trained in a way that we were hoping for medals,” she revealed. “We planned in a way that things turn out good and this worked in our favour this time.”
Bhaker’s success in Paris is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the growing popularity of shooting in India. “Any achievement is enough to give us motivation,” she said. “I think India has a huge amount of talent. I think it will take some time but we will have great talents in the future.”
Bhaker’s medals are particularly inspiring for young girls who aspire to pursue shooting as a career. “I think the parents would be much more flexible with the girls, and the people would accept shooting more after this celebration,” she added.
The 22-year-old’s bronze medals came in the women’s 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team event, where she partnered with Sarabjot Singh. She narrowly missed out on a third bronze in the 25m pistol, finishing a commendable fourth.
Bhaker’s achievements have not only brought glory to India but have also set a new benchmark for Indian shooters. Her determination, resilience, and unwavering focus serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country.
