New Delhi: Manu Bhaker, India’s beloved shooting prodigy, etched her name in Olympic history by securing not one, but two medals at the Paris Olympics. The 22-year-old ace shooter, known for her precision and nerves of steel, achieved this remarkable feat in both the 10-meter air pistol event and the 10-meter mixed team event.
Bronze in Mixed Team Event
In a thrilling showdown, Manu Bhaker partnered with Sarabjit Singh to claim the bronze medal in the 10-meter mixed team event. Their formidable duo faced off against South Korea’s Lee Wonho and Oh Ye Jin. Despite a shaky start, the Indian pair rallied back, turning adversity into victory. After losing the first shot, they rebounded swiftly, eventually defeating the South Korean pair with a score of 16-10. This victory not only secured India’s second medal in the Paris Olympics but also marked Manu Bhaker as the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single Olympics.
Dominance in Shooting
Manu Bhaker’s performance was nothing short of exceptional. She hit the bullseye 19 times out of 26 shots, showcasing her unwavering accuracy. Sarabjit Singh, her partner, also contributed significantly with 9 ten-pointers. In contrast, the Korean pair managed only 12 shots above 10 points. The Indian duo’s dominance was evident, leaving no doubt about their prowess on the Olympic stage.
Surpassing Legends
Before Manu Bhaker, only two Indian athletes had achieved the distinction of winning two medals in individual events across multiple Olympics. Wrestler Sushil Kumar secured medals in 2008 and 2012, while badminton star PV Sindhu clinched hers in 2016 and 2020. However, Manu’s achievement surpasses them both. Not only did she win two medals, but she did so in the same Olympics, a remarkable feat that sets her apart from her predecessors.
As the nation celebrates Manu Bhaker’s historic achievement, her name will forever be etched in the annals of Indian sports. With her unwavering determination and steely resolve, she has become an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.
