Indian shooter Manu Bhaker has once again made history, adding another prestigious accolade to her growing list of achievements. On February 17, 2025, she was honored as the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year, an award that recognizes the finest female athlete in Indian sports.
This achievement comes on the heels of her stellar performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she won two historic bronze medals. At just 22 years old, Manu Bhaker has established herself as one of India’s most promising and accomplished athletes, setting new standards in Indian shooting.
A Historic Feat at the Paris Olympics
Manu Bhaker’s performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics was nothing short of extraordinary. Competing in one of the most intense and highly competitive sporting events, she showcased her immense talent, resilience, and composure.
She won two bronze medals—one in the 10m air pistol mixed team event and the other in the women’s 10m air pistol event. This remarkable feat made her the first Indian female shooter to win multiple Olympic medals in a single edition of the Games.
Her journey to these medals was not easy. The Olympics demand the highest level of focus, precision, and mental fortitude, and Bhaker demonstrated all these qualities on the grandest stage.
The competition was fierce, with the world’s best shooters vying for a place on the podium. However, Manu Bhaker held her nerve, delivering consistently strong performances throughout the rounds. Her ability to maintain her composure under pressure and execute flawless shots in the crucial moments played a key role in her success.
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With her two bronze medals, she ended India’s 12-year medal drought in Olympic shooting. The last time India had won an Olympic medal in shooting was back in 2012, when Vijay Kumar and Gagan Narang brought glory to the nation. Bhaker’s achievement reignited India’s dominance in the sport, inspiring a new generation of young shooters to dream big.
Recognition and Accolades
Following her Olympic success, Manu Bhaker received widespread recognition and numerous accolades. One of the most significant honors she received was the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting award.
Interestingly, her name was initially left out of the list of nominees, but after her historic performance in Paris, the Sports Ministry officially included her among the awardees on January 17, 2025. This award was a testament to her relentless dedication and hard work in the sport.
STORY | Manu Bhaker (@realmanubhaker) wins BBC Sportswoman of the Year award
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 17, 2025
READ: https://t.co/BD7jmmlkVp
VIDEO:
(Full video available on PTI Videos- https://t.co/dv5TRARJn4) pic.twitter.com/36sTD2xu2I
Winning the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year award further solidified her status as one of India’s most celebrated athletes. She faced tough competition from some of the best female athletes in the country, including golfer Aditi Ashok, para-shooter Avani Lekhara, India women’s cricket vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, and wrestler Vinesh Phogat. Each of these athletes has made significant contributions to Indian sports, but Bhaker’s historic Olympic feat gave her the edge.
This award is particularly special as it is decided through a combination of public votes and expert panel evaluations. The recognition from the public showcases the immense support and admiration she has earned from fans across the country. The award also highlights the growing appreciation for shooting as a sport in India, which has often been overshadowed by more popular sports like cricket and badminton.
Manu Bhaker’s achievements have also garnered international attention, with media outlets and sporting organizations recognizing her as a rising star in the world of shooting. Her consistent performances in international events, coupled with her ability to deliver under pressure, have made her a formidable competitor on the global stage.
Inspiring the Next Generation
At just 22 years old, Manu Bhaker has already achieved what many athletes aspire to accomplish in a lifetime. However, this is just the beginning of her journey. With several more years of competition ahead of her, she is expected to achieve even greater heights in the sport.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Bhaker’s journey is her ability to inspire young athletes. Coming from a small town in Haryana, she has shown that talent, hard work, and determination can lead to success on the world stage. Her story resonates with aspiring athletes across India, proving that with the right mindset and perseverance, anything is possible.
Bhaker’s success has also contributed to the growing popularity of shooting as a sport in India. Over the past few years, India has produced several world-class shooters, and Bhaker’s achievements will further motivate young talents to take up the sport. She has become a role model for young girls in particular, breaking stereotypes and showcasing that women can excel in shooting, a sport traditionally dominated by men.
Apart from her sporting achievements, Bhaker’s discipline, work ethic, and humility have won her admiration from fans and fellow athletes alike. She continues to train rigorously, constantly striving to improve her skills and performance. Her dedication to the sport and her hunger for success make her a strong contender for future Olympic medals.
Looking ahead, Bhaker has her sights set on the upcoming Asian Games, World Championships, and the next Olympic cycle. With her unwavering focus and determination, she is expected to continue making India proud on the international stage.
In conclusion, Manu Bhaker’s journey from a small-town girl to an Olympic medalist and a national icon is truly inspiring. Her historic achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympics, followed by her recognition as the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year, are a testament to her exceptional talent and hard work. As she continues to break barriers and set new records, Bhaker remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for the future of Indian sports.
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