Paris, July 31: In a historic achievement for Indian sports, Manu Bhaker has become the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single edition of the Olympic Games. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Bhaker clinched her first bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol event on Sunday and added another bronze to her collection in the mixed team 10m air pistol event on Tuesday. This remarkable feat places her among the elite athletes who have excelled at the Games, further underscoring India’s growing prowess in shooting sports.
The momentous achievement was solidified on Tuesday when Bhaker, alongside her shooting partner Sarabjot Singh, secured a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event. The Indian duo delivered a stellar performance to defeat South Korea’s Lee Wonoho and Oh Yeh Jin with a commanding score of 16-10 at Chateauroux’s National Shooting Centre. This victory not only marked India’s second medal of the Paris Olympics but also continued Bhaker’s redemption journey after her challenging debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Bhaker’s accomplishments in Paris are historic in several ways. She is the first Indian athlete from independent India to achieve the milestone of winning multiple medals in a single Olympics. The last time an Indian athlete won two medals in one edition of the Games was Norman Pritchard, who won two silvers in 1900 before India’s independence. Bhaker’s performance thus represents a significant leap in the country’s Olympic history, setting a new benchmark for future athletes.
The mixed team event was particularly notable for Bhaker and Singh, who had earlier finished third in the women’s individual 10m air pistol competition. Their combined performance in the mixed event displayed both resilience and skill, with Bhaker’s consistent shooting proving crucial. Despite a few subpar shots, her precision in other rounds ensured their victory. Singh’s strong finish, including key shots in the final rounds, played an essential role in securing the bronze.
For Singh, this Olympic Games marked a journey of personal redemption and success. Initially aspiring to be a footballer, Singh’s career path shifted dramatically after a formative experience at a summer camp, where he was inspired by shooting. His transition from football to shooting has been marked by significant achievements, including gold medals at the Junior World Championships and Asian Games. Despite a challenging start at the Paris Olympics, Singh’s performance in the mixed team event showcased his growth and potential as a competitive shooter.
The success of Bhaker and Singh in Paris is a testament to their dedication and the evolving strength of Indian shooting. As the Games continue, Bhaker is set to compete in the women’s 25m air pistol event, where she will aim to add a third medal to her impressive haul. Their achievements not only highlight individual excellence but also reflect the broader progress of Indian sports on the global stage.