NEW DELHI: Indian shooting sensation Manu Bhaker, double bronze medallist at the Paris 2024 Olympics, recently addressed online criticism regarding her public appearances with her medals.
Bhaker clarified her intentions and emphasized that showcasing her achievements is a way of sharing her inspiring journey and honouring the nation she represents.
Bhaker made history in Paris by becoming the first Indian athlete to secure two medals in a single Olympic Games.
Her bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and the mixed team event were instrumental in India’s impressive medal haul, with Bhaker securing two of the nation’s six medals.
Her victory in the women’s 10m air pistol marked India’s first medal of the Games, setting a triumphant tone for the Indian contingent.
Despite her historic accomplishment, Bhaker faced unwarranted criticism from a segment of online users who accused her of excessively displaying her medals.
Choosing to address the negativity head-on, Bhaker took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to share her perspective.
“The two bronze medals I won at the Paris 2024 Olympics belong to India,” Bhaker stated. “Whenever I am invited for any event and asked to show these medals, I do it with pride. This is my way of sharing my beautiful journey.”
Her journey, filled with rigorous training, unwavering focus, and ultimate triumph, serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation.
Bhaker’s accomplishments at the Paris Olympics extend beyond her two bronze medals. She narrowly missed out on a third medal, finishing a commendable fourth in the 25m pistol event.