In a stunning turnaround from her Tokyo 2020 experience, Indian shooter Manu Bhaker has made an impressive comeback by qualifying for the final of the Women’s 10m Air Pistol event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her qualification marks a significant moment for Indian shooting sports and highlights a personal redemption arc for the young athlete.
Manu Bhaker journey
Bhaker’s journey to the Paris Games has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Bhaker faced a series of setbacks, including a malfunctioning pistol during the qualification round that led to her finishing 12th and missing the finals. The disappointment was compounded by criticism and sleepless nights, which affected her performance in subsequent events.
Despite the setbacks, Bhaker’s determination and hard work have paid off. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, she demonstrated her skill and resilience by securing a place in the final of the Women’s 10m Air Pistol event. With a total score of 580, Bhaker finished third in the qualification round, showcasing a consistent performance across six series. Her scores were: 98, 97, 97, 96, 96, and 96.
Bhaker’s achievement is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. The 19-year-old shooter, who scored 98 in the first series to rank second initially, encountered a major hurdle when her pistol malfunctioned in the second series. Despite being allowed only to replace the defective lever and not the entire pistol, Bhaker managed to recover and finish strong, ultimately securing her place in the final. Her impressive comeback has made her India’s first finalist at the Paris 2024 Games.
In contrast, Rhythm Sangwan, another Indian shooter, did not qualify for the final. Sangwan finished 15th in the qualification round with a score of 573, which was not sufficient to make the top 8 required for the final.
Bhaker’s journey from Tokyo’s heartbreak to Paris’ promise symbolizes a narrative of resilience and redemption. Her qualification for the final is not only a personal victory but also a moment of pride for Indian sports. As she prepares for the final, Bhaker’s performance will be closely watched, with hopes that she will continue to shine and potentially bring home a medal.
Manu Bhaker’s successful qualification for the Paris 2024 Women’s 10m Air Pistol final is a powerful reminder of her talent and determination. The upcoming final will be a critical opportunity for Bhaker to showcase her skills on a global stage and fulfill her promise of Olympic glory.
