Ace Indian shooter Manu Bhaker has been bestowed the honor of being India’s flag bearer at the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024. The 22-year-old markswoman etched her name in Indian sporting history by securing two bronze medals in Paris.
Bhaker’s remarkable journey began with a bronze in the individual 10m air pistol event, making her the first Indian woman shooter to win an Olympic medal. She broke India’s 12-year medal drought in shooting, following Vijay Kumar and Gagan Narang’s podium finishes in London 2012.
Not content with one medal, Bhaker teamed up with Sarabjot Singh to clinch another bronze in the 10m air pistol mixed team event. This achievement made her the first Indian woman to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games.
“Manu has been chosen to be the flag bearer. She has done exceptionally well and deserves the honor,” an IOA official confirmed to PTI.
Bhaker expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “There are many in the contingent who are more deserving, but it will be a real honor if I am asked to.”
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has yet to finalize the male flag bearer, with the decision expected in the coming days.
Besides Bhaker’s two medals, Swapnil Kushale added a third bronze for India in the men’s 50m Rifle Three Positions. Ace shuttler Lakshya Sen will compete for bronze on Monday, while the Indian men’s hockey team advanced to the semi-finals after defeating Great Britain on penalties.
Reigning Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra will commence his javelin throw campaign on August 6.
In the opening ceremony, star shuttler PV Sindhu and veteran table tennis player Sharath Kamal led the Indian contingent as flag bearers in the Parade of Nations.
