Swapnil Kusale Reflects on Paris 2024 Campaign, Aiming for Future Gold

Olympic bronze medallist Swapnil Kusale discusses his performance in Paris 2024, attributing his bronze medal to a lack of physical fitness. He plans to aim for gold in the future. Kusale made history as the first Indian shooter to win a medal in the men's 50m rifle 3P event.

Olympic bronze medallist Swapnil Kusale has reflected on his Paris 2024 campaign, attributing his bronze medal performance to a lack of physical fitness while expressing his ambition to secure gold in the future. Kusale made history as the first Indian shooter to clinch a medal in the men's 50m rifle 3P event.

The 29-year-old shooter detailed his focus during the competition, explaining that even when he ranked sixth, he was entirely concentrated on hitting the target. 'I didn't see any target on the screen board when I was in the sixth position. I was just focusing to hit the target,' Kusale told ANI.

Addressing his physical fitness, Kusale acknowledged it as a limiting factor in his performance. 'I lacked physical fitness, which is one of the reasons I missed out on the gold medal. I will work on this and aim to win it next time around,' he said. Kusale also spoke about the vital support he has received throughout his journey, highlighting contributions from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).

'SAI and TOPS have supported me financially throughout my journey since the equipment in my sport is very expensive,' Kusale noted. He also commented on his interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who congratulated him. 'PM Modi interacted with me and applauded my performance in the medal match. He said it was a proud moment for the country,' Kusale concluded.

In the qualification round, Kusale finished seventh, securing his place in the final at the Paris Olympics men's 50m rifle 3P event.

(With inputs from agencies.)