Manu Bhaker Redeems Herself at Paris Olympics, Eyes Glory in Women's 10m Air Pistol Final

Manu Bhaker delivered a confident performance to qualify for the women's 10m air pistol final at the Paris Olympics, redeeming herself after a disappointing Tokyo run. While Bhaker shone, the Indian shooting contingent faced an otherwise challenging day, struggling in various events including men's air pistol and mixed team events.

Manu Bhaker delivered a stellar performance at the Paris Olympics, emphatically qualifying for the women's 10m air pistol final. This comes three years after her heartbreaking exit in Tokyo. Bhaker shot 580 to finish third in the qualifications, just behind Hungarian shooter Veronika Major.

Despite Bhaker's strong showing, it was a lackluster day for the rest of the Indian shooting team. They failed to make it to the finals in the men's 10m air pistol and 10m air rifle mixed team events. Young shooter Rhythm Sangwan ended 15th in the qualifications.

Bhaker's journey to redemption included overcoming a pistol malfunction in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, and despite the pressure, she has shown remarkable composure. Coach Jaspal Rana noted that staying hydrated was key due to the heat in the range. Meanwhile, 2016 Olympic champion Anna Korakaki, competing next to Bhaker, had to withdraw due to illness.

(With inputs from agencies.)