Mirabai Chanu’s return to competition after a six-month injury layoff has been met with cautious optimism. The 49kg lifter’s 184kg lift at the Phuket World Cup has secured her a spot at the Paris Olympics, but the road to a medal is fraught with challenges.
Chanu’s performance in Phuket was encouraging, considering her recent injury. However, the competition in Paris will be fierce. The top three finishers in Phuket all lifted over 200kg, with North Korea’s Ri Song Gum setting a new world record of 221kg.
China’s Hou Zhihui and Jiang Huihua, as well as Thailand’s Surodchana Khambao and USA’s Jourdan Delacruz, will be among Chanu’s main rivals in Paris. These lifters are younger than Chanu and have been consistently lifting over 190kg.
Chanu acknowledges the stiff competition but remains focused on her own performance. She has set a target of 205kg for Paris, which may not guarantee a medal but will keep her in contention.
National coach Vijay Kumar Sharma is confident that Chanu will reach her peak in time for the Olympics. He believes that her strength-based workouts will help her regain her muscle strength and improve her technique.
Despite the challenges, Chanu remains determined to make a mark in Paris. Her experience and resilience will be crucial in her quest for an Olympic medal.
