Manu Bhaker Makes History at Paris 2024: First Indian to Win Two Medals in a Single Edition of the Olympics

Paris, July 2024 – In a remarkable display of skill and resilience, 22-year-old Indian shooter Manu Bhaker made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics by becoming the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single edition of the Games. Bhaker secured a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event, followed by another bronze in the mixed team event, where she paired with fellow shooter Sarabjot Singh. This achievement not only marks a significant milestone in her career but also in Indian sports history.

A Triumphant Return

Manu Bhaker’s journey to the podium in Paris is a story of perseverance and redemption. Her previous Olympic outing in Tokyo 2020 was marred by technical issues and disappointments, leaving her without a medal. However, she returned to the Olympic stage with renewed determination, delivering a stellar performance at Chateauroux’s shooting range. In the women’s 10m air pistol event, Bhaker displayed remarkable composure and accuracy, earning a historic bronze. This victory ended a 12-year drought for India in Olympic shooting, the last medal being won by Vijay Kumar in 2012 London.

Breaking New Ground

Bhaker’s success did not end there. Just days after her individual event, she teamed up with Sarabjot Singh in the mixed team 10m air pistol event. The duo faced stiff competition, particularly from the South Korean pair of Lee Wonoho and Oh Yeh Jin. Despite the pressure, Bhaker and Singh emerged victorious with a 16-10 scoreline, securing another bronze medal for India. This achievement not only highlights Bhaker’s exceptional skill but also marks her as the first Indian markswoman to earn a podium finish at the Olympics.

A Historical Feat for India

Manu Bhaker’s dual medals in Paris place her in a unique position in Indian Olympic history. She is now the second Indian ever to win two medals in a single Olympic Games, following Norman Pritchard who won two silver medals in athletics at the 1900 Paris Olympics. However, Pritchard’s achievements came in the pre-Independence era, making Bhaker the first to achieve this feat in the post-Independence period.

Moreover, Bhaker joins an exclusive group of Indian athletes who have won multiple Olympic medals. This group includes renowned shuttler PV Sindhu, who claimed a silver at Rio 2016 and a bronze at Tokyo 2020, and wrestler Sushil Kumar, who won bronze in Beijing 2008 and silver in London 2012. Bhaker’s accomplishments are especially notable in the context of Indian shooting, a sport where the country has seen sporadic success at the Olympics.

Looking Ahead

As Bhaker basks in the glory of her double bronze win, the journey at Paris 2024 is not yet over for her. She is set to compete in the women’s 25m air pistol event, presenting an opportunity to further cement her legacy at these Games. A third medal would not only enhance her personal tally but also bolster India’s medal count at the Paris Olympics, reflecting the country’s growing prowess in shooting sports.

Conclusion

Manu Bhaker’s historic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics is a testament to her talent, dedication, and resilience. Her journey from the setbacks of Tokyo to the podiums of Paris serves as an inspiration to athletes across India. As she prepares for her next event, the nation watches with hope and pride, celebrating a new icon in Indian sports. Bhaker’s achievements underscore the potential of Indian athletes on the global stage and herald a new era of success and recognition for Indian shooters.

Also Read:  Manu Bhaker Breaks India’s 12-Year Olympic Shooting Medal Drought with Historic Bronze at Paris 2024