At just 22 years old, Manu Bhaker has already etched her name into the annals of Indian sports history, becoming the first athlete from independent India to secure two medals in a single Olympics. With her eyes set on the final event, the 25m sports pistol qualifications scheduled for August 2, Bhaker carries a simple plea \u2014 \u201cdon\u2019t be disappointed\u201d if she doesn\u2019t add to her impressive tally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bhaker\u2019s remarkable achievements so far include bronze medals in both the women\u2019s 10m air pistol and the mixed 10m air pistol events. Her performance has been nothing short of groundbreaking, marking a historic milestone for Indian shooting sports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reflecting on her accomplishments, Bhaker expressed a mix of gratitude and hope. \u201cI hope the love stays. I will definitely try my best. I hope people are not disappointed or angry,\u201d she said. This sentiment highlights a common concern among elite athletes \u2014 the pressure to continually meet expectations despite having already achieved extraordinary success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bhaker, alongside fellow 22-year-old Sarabjot Singh, decisively overcame the Korean challenge in the mixed team event, showcasing her skill and resilience. \u201cThe feeling is surreal because I hadn\u2019t hoped I\u2019d win two medals in a single Olympics,\u201d Bhaker admitted. Her words underscore the unexpected nature of her success and her appreciation for the opportunity to represent India on such a prestigious stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With one more event to go, Bhaker remains optimistic and determined. \u201cThere is one more match to go (in 25m sports pistol). So, I am looking forward to the next one, but I am grateful that I got another medal for India,\u201d she said. Her commitment to excellence reflects the high standards she sets for herself and her desire to contribute further to India\u2019s Olympic legacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bhaker\u2019s current success contrasts with her experience at the Tokyo 2021 Games, where a pistol malfunction thwarted her ambitions. This setback has only deepened her appreciation for her recent victories. \u201cAfter the experience in Tokyo, I realize how special winning this (medal) is. When I start on the lane, I know I have worked hard and so many people have supported me throughout my journey,\u201d she noted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When asked about her potential to become a sporting icon akin to Abhinav Bindra, who achieved household fame with his gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Bhaker remained grounded. \u201cI can\u2019t say that about myself; if people call me that then I am grateful. But my journey will continue and there\u2019s no stopping for me,\u201d she asserted. Her focus remains on perseverance and continuous improvement, regardless of the accolades she may receive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looking up to fellow Indian athletes like javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and shuttler PV Sindhu, Bhaker admires their achievements and remains inspired by their success. \u201cThey have always been my seniors, I can\u2019t compare (myself with them),\u201d she said, acknowledging the significant strides made by her peers in their respective sports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the second youngest Indian athlete to win an Olympic medal after PV Sindhu, Bhaker\u2019s story is one of determination, resilience, and unwavering dedication. With her journey far from over, she continues to inspire with her performance and her relentless pursuit of excellence on the global stage.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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