Manu Bhaker makes history with bronze medal in Women’s Air Pistol at Paris Olympics 2024
Manu Bhaker has etched her name in history by securing a bronze medal in the Women’s Air Pistol event at the Paris Olympics 2024. This achievement makes her the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting.
Bhaker clinched the bronze with a score of 221.7 points, marking India’s first medal at these Olympics. The 22-year-old’s triumph is particularly significant as it represents a remarkable comeback after a challenging performance in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where her pistol malfunctioned.
The gold medal was awarded to South Korea’s Ye Jin, who set a new Olympic record with a score of 243.2 points. Kim Yeji, also from South Korea, secured the silver with a score of 241.3 points.
Bhaker’s road to the podium began with a strong showing in the qualification round on Saturday, where she finished in third place. This achievement is notable as Bhaker became the first Indian woman in two decades to advance to an Olympic final in an individual shooting event, a feat last accomplished by Suma Shirur in 2004.
Despite a strong performance, fellow Indian shooter Rhythm Sangwan did not advance to the final, finishing in 15th place in the qualification round.
Bhaker’s historic win not only marks a personal redemption but also a significant milestone for Indian shooting sports on the global stage.
