India proudly celebrates a remarkable achievement at the 2024 Paris Olympics, as two of its most celebrated athletes, shooter Manu Bhaker and javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, clinched prestigious medals, further solidifying their legacy in the world of sports. Manu Bhaker, known for her precision and poise, won the bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol event, while Neeraj Chopra, India’s golden boy of athletics, claimed the silver medal in men’s javelin throw, narrowly missing out on the top spot but once again demonstrating his prowess on the global stage.

Manu Bhaker’s Historic Win

Born in Haryana, Bhaker made her mark at a young age when she became the youngest Indian to win a gold medal at the ISSF World Cup in 2018. Her rise in the sport has been meteoric, as she continually pushed boundaries to achieve excellence. The Paris Olympics triumph adds to her growing list of accolades, positioning her as one of India’s most successful shooters.

Manu Bhaker, a rising star in Indian shooting, has consistently showcased her talent in international competitions. Having won multiple medals in the Youth Olympics and World Cups, Bhaker entered the Paris Olympics with high expectations. She did not disappoint, delivering a stellar performance to secure the Bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol event. Her victory was the result of years of hard work, dedication, and overcoming challenges, including equipment malfunctions in previous international events.

Neeraj Chopra’s Legacy Continues

Chopra’s journey from a small village in Haryana to becoming a global icon is nothing short of inspirational. His gold in Tokyo made him the first Indian to win an Olympic medal in athletics, a feat that sparked a wave of interest in track and field events across the country. His performance in Paris solidified his status as a legend in Indian athletics, as he continued to break barriers and inspire future generations of athletes.

Neeraj Chopra, already a household name after his historic gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, added a silver medal to his impressive collection in Paris 2024. Despite facing tough competition, Chopra’s determination and focus were evident as he launched a throw that secured him second place on the podium. His silver medal is a testament to his consistency and ability to perform under pressure on the world’s biggest stage.

PM Modi’s Conversation with the Champions

Following their medal-winning performances, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally spoke with both Manu Bhaker and Neeraj Chopra, congratulating them on their extraordinary achievements. In his conversation with Bhaker, PM Modi praised her grit and resilience, commending her ability to rise above challenges and make the country proud. He emphasized how her gold medal has brought immense pride to India and serves as an inspiration to young athletes, particularly women in sports.

In his interaction with Neeraj Chopra, PM Modi highlighted how Chopra’s silver medal continues to be a beacon of hope for India in athletics. The Prime Minister expressed his admiration for Chopra’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his dedication to maintaining his form at the highest level. Modi also reflected on Chopra’s journey and the significance of his Tokyo gold, mentioning how his achievements have transformed the perception of Indian athletics globally.

A Glance at Their Previous Achievements

Manu Bhaker’s journey to Olympic glory has been one of perseverance. In addition to her ISSF World Cup victories, she has consistently ranked among the top shooters in the world. Bhaker’s career highlights include multiple medals in the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games, making her one of India’s most promising athletes.

Neeraj Chopra’s rise to stardom came with his gold medal at the 2016 World U20 Championships, where he set a junior world record. His historic gold at the Tokyo Olympics catapulted him to fame, and since then, he has become a symbol of hope for Indian sports, consistently delivering on the international stage.

Both athletes have etched their names in Indian sporting history, and their performances at the 2024 Paris Olympics will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come.