Manu Bhaker Reflects on Historic Paris Olympics in Heartfelt Message

For Manu Bhaker, the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris have been one of those in a lifetime. She is only 22 years old and, with her 3 medals, became the first Indian to clinch multiple medals in a lone Olympic Games and the first female shooter from India to win an Olympic medal. Though she missed making it that historic third medal, Manu Bhaker penned the following heartfelt thank you to her well-wishers.

"All your messages and wishes have touched me; winning two bronze medals feels like a dream come true. This success is not mine alone, but of all those who have been a part of this journey, who have motivated and supported me incessantly," Manu wrote in her social media post.

Manu made it through to the final of the 25m women's pistol event after she did well in the precision stage. At the end of it all, she finished in third place yet again, tied with Veronika Major of Hungary. A shoot-off rounded out the podium and Manu missed by a whisker to finish fourth.

"For people, I am really grateful to them, but above all, I am very, very indebted to the solidarity extended by my family members, coach Jaspal Rana, and every other person who has supported me throughout, including the NRAI, TOPS, SAI, OGQ, Performax, and especially the Haryana government, who have been there for me. So, to be able to represent my country in such a mega event is really a matter of great pride and happiness," she said.

Bhaker took the third-place position in the Women's 10m Air Pistol Individual event and medaled in Mixed Team with Sarabjot Singh, thereby becoming the first Indian to do so in shooting.

"Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey and for standing by me every step of the way. Your encouragement means everything to me! While my campaign in Paris came to a bittersweet ending, I am proud to have contributed to #TeamINDIA's success. Jai Hind!" Manu finally concluded her heartfelt message.