Tarundeep Rai, India’s veteran archer, has made a remarkable comeback after being excluded from the Asian Games team last year. The snub ignited a fire within him, leading him to adopt drastic lifestyle changes and intensify his training.
Rai, a three-time Olympian, was devastated by his omission from the Hangzhou Asian Games despite his strong performances. “I was boiling with anger,” he recalled. “I decided to give it one last shot.”
To regain his fitness and competitiveness, Rai embarked on a strict diet and dedicated more time to the gym. He shed 12kg in two months, determined to prove his worth.
His efforts paid off when he made the cut for the Indian team for the World Cup and Olympics after a two-month trial. In Shanghai, Rai and his teammates Dhiraj Bommadevara and Pravin Jadhav created history by defeating reigning Olympic champions South Korea to win the World Cup gold.
Rai attributed their success to their unwavering focus and the inclusion of a sports psychologist. “We didn’t think about winning over Korea,” he said. “We just went there to replicate what we have been doing at practice.”
The victory marked the first time an Indian men’s team had defeated archery powerhouse Korea in a World Cup final. It also boosted their chances of qualifying for the Paris Olympics.
Rai, who began his international career in 2003, is now in the best shape of his life. “I feel amazing right now,” he said. “I’ve got this childlike energy that keeps me going.”
His journey serves as an inspiration to athletes of all ages, proving that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
