In a dazzling display of resilience, Manu Bhaker has etched her name in the annals of Olympic history by securing India’s first medal at the Paris 2024 Games. The 21-year-old shooting sensation clinched a bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol event, delivering a performance that captivated audiences and silenced critics.
Bhaker’s triumph is particularly sweet given her tumultuous journey since the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Back then, a pistol malfunction left her in tears and contemplating retirement. But in Paris, Manu Bhaker rose from the ashes, showcasing nerves of steel and a renewed vigor that saw her through to the podium.
Her path to this historic bronze was paved with exceptional precision. After qualifying third with a stellar score of 580, Bhaker battled fiercely in the finals, shooting a total of 221.7. Although she was edged out for silver by South Korea’s Kim Yeji, who scored a 10.5 to Bhaker’s 10.3 in the final shot, her performance remained nothing short of spectacular.
Bhaker’s journey from Jhajjar, Haryana to Olympic glory is a testament to her unwavering dedication. Inspired by the 2016 Rio Olympics, she transitioned from a multi-sport athlete to a shooting powerhouse, rapidly ascending the ranks with record-breaking scores and gold medals at youth events.
Her victory not only marks a significant personal achievement but also reignites India’s shooting legacy after a 12-year hiatus. As Bhaker stands on the podium, the entire nation celebrates a long-awaited breakthrough, reaffirming that with grit and determination, dreams can indeed turn into reality.
