Sentinel Digital Desk
Indian shooter Manu Bhaker was named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year on February 17 after a standout performance at the Paris Olympics 2024, where she won two historic bronze medals.
The 22-year-old's outstanding performances cemented her reputation as one of India's most talented athletes, making her the first Indian female shooter to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games.
Manu Bhaker triumphed over a strong field of nominees to win the prestigious award. Other nominees included golfer Aditi Ashok, para-shooter Avani Lekhara, India women's cricket vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, and wrestler Vinesh Phogat.
Bhaker's victory in Paris 2024 was a significant moment in Indian shooting history. She broke the country's 12-year medal drought in Olympic shooting by winning bronze in both the 10m air pistol mixed team event and the women's 10m air pistol event.
Manu Bhaker's Olympic achievements earned her widespread recognition at home. In January 2024, she received the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India's highest sporting honor.
Interestingly, her name was initially omitted from the list of nominees, but following her historic feats in Paris, the Sports Ministry officially included her among the awardees on January 17.