My sights set on hitting the bullseye at 2028 Olympics: Manu Bhaker

NEW DELHI: India’s star shooter Manu Bhaker etched her name in the history books with her stellar performances at the Paris Olympics. The 22-year-old from Haryana is now a proud owner of two Olympic medals, a feeling that is yet to sink in for the shooter from Haryana. Manu won two bronze medals in Paris – one in women’s 10 metre air pistol event and another in the mixed 10 metre air pistol team event.
With her sights set on the future, the young shooter is now focusing on her next significant target – the Los Angeles Olympics.Manu is now determined to change the colour of the medal.
In an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com, Manu discussed how she overcame the disappointment of the Tokyo Olympics to achieve success in Paris, her reunion with coach Jaspal Rana, her aspirations for the Los Angeles Olympics, and much more …
How does it feel to be a double Olympic medalist at just 22 years old? Has the reality of this incredible achievement sunk in yet?
It feels incredible to be a double Olympic medallist at just 22, and while it’s an honour to be the first Indian to achieve this feat, I’m still letting it sink in. Winning two medals wasn’t just a personal achievement; it was a powerful moment of reclaiming my passion and purpose.

Becoming the first athlete from India to win two medals in a single Games feels like a beautiful, almost surreal realization of my dreams. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent my country and for the unwavering support that has made this journey possible.
What are your plans and schedule following your triumph at the Paris Olympics?
After my success at the Paris Olympics, I’m focused on keeping the momentum going. While I’m grateful for my achievements, I know that future success depends on more than just accolades.
I’m committed to staying sharp and working hard. With my sights set on the next Olympics, I’m dedicated to rigorous training and excited to represent India once again, aiming to change the colour of the medal and reach even greater heights.
In what ways did your coaches, teammates, and family support you throughout your Olympic journey?
The journey to the Olympics was a team effort, and I couldn’t have succeeded without my coach, Jaspal Rana, my family, and my teammates. Jaspal’s constant encouragement guided me through challenging moments, while my family’s unwavering belief kept me motivated and grounded.
My teammates provided crucial support, making the journey feel less solitary. Their collective presence and support were essential, reminding me that every achievement is the result of many hands working together.

How did you turn the disappointment of the Tokyo Olympics into motivation for Paris? What strategies and mindset helped you stay focused and driven?
Winning and losing are part of any sport, and I learned that losing can be just as important as winning. During my preparation for the Paris Olympics, I used the disappointment of Tokyo as a source of motivation.
I approached each challenge with a renewed sense of purpose, viewing them as opportunities for growth. The unwavering support from my family and teammates was crucial-they believed in me even when I doubted myself. Their encouragement made it clear that with perseverance, we can turn our greatest disappointments into our most meaningful victories. All we need is a thumbs-up to keep moving forward.
You reunited with coach Jaspal Rana in 2023. How did this reunion impact your performance, and what were his words to you after you won the medal?
Reuniting with Jaspal Rana in 2023 was a turning point for me. His return as my coach brought a new level of focus and confidence. His understanding of my needs and his guidance were exactly what I needed to refine my skills and improve my performance. After the victory in Paris, his response was both reassuring and affirming.

You’ve been dubbed the ‘golden girl’ of shooting. Are you setting your sights on winning gold at the Los Angeles Olympics?
Being referred to as the ‘golden girl’ of shooting is both humbling and motivating. My sights are set on hitting the bullseye at the Los Angeles Olympics. Each stage of my training is aimed at refining my precision and focus, all with the goal of securing that gold medal. While I focus on the journey and the hard work, the dream of standing on the podium and representing India keeps me inspired and driven.
Being part of the Thums Up’s ‘Utha Thums Up, Jagaa Toofan’ campaign has been a truly meaningful experience. The power of a simple thumbs-up gesture resonates deeply with me-it’s a small act that carries so much weight.