Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh win bronze:
Indian shooters Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh created history by winning bronze medals in the 10m air pistol mixed team event. The win is a significant achievement as Bhaker has become the first Indian athlete to win two medals at the same Olympic Games, having earlier won bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol event.
As the eyes of the world turn to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, India is set to make its mark at the grand sporting event. With a contingent of 117 athletes competing across 16 disciplines, the excitement and anticipation is palpable. The Indian Olympic team, which has a rich history of participation dating back to its debut at the 1900 Paris Olympics, aims to build on its recent successes, including a record medal haul, at the Tokyo 2020 Games. This year, Indian athletes are not just participants; they are contenders for glory. The spotlight is particularly on renowned shooters like Manu Bhaker, who has already made headlines by bagging a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event, and her teammate Sarabjot Singh, who won another bronze medal in the mixed team event. Their achievements symbolise the potential of the Indian contingent striving for excellence in Paris. The Paris 2024 Olympics not only represent a platform for athletic prowess, but also a testament to India’s growing stature in the global sporting arena. With events ranging from shooting and archery to badminton and boxing, Indian athletes are set to face stiff competition while aiming for historic achievements. As the Games get underway, the hopes of a nation rest on their shoulders, and the journey promises to be as thrilling as the destination.
Key Athletes to Watch
With the Indian contingent becoming the main attraction at the Paris Olympics 2024, several athletes have emerged as potential medal contenders. These individuals have consistently showcased their skill and determination, making them ones to watch in their respective disciplines.
Athletics
The athletics contingent has several promising athletes who have the potential to make a mark in Paris:
Neeraj Chopra: The reigning Olympic champion in javelin throw, Chopra’s gold medal at Tokyo 2020 has inspired a new generation of athletes. All eyes will be on him as he aims to defend his title and cement his place among the greats of the sport.
Avinash Sable: The steeplechase runner has been making waves on the international circuit with his impressive performances. He will be looking to convert his success into a medal-winning effort in Paris.
Hockey
Hockey holds a special place in India’s Olympic history, and the Paris Games offer the men’s and women’s teams an opportunity to further enhance their legacy:
Men’s Hockey Team: The Tokyo 2020 bronze medallists will aim to build on their success and challenge for the gold medal. Led by experienced players like Manpreet Singh and PR Sreejesh, the team has the talent and determination to go all the way in the tournament.
Women’s Hockey Team: Having missed out on a medal in Tokyo, the women’s team will be eager to prove their mettle in Paris. With a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent, they have the potential to surprise and secure a historic medal.
Other Sports
Boxing: Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain will look to upgrade her medal haul in the welterweight category.
Badminton: Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu will look to add to her medal tally in Paris, where she will face stiff competition from the world’s best shuttlers.
Wrestling: Women’s freestyle wrestling medal hope Vinesh Phogat will be determined to make up for an early exit in Tokyo and secure a podium finish in Paris. As the Indian contingent gears up for the Paris Olympics 2024, these athletes will be the ones to watch out for as they strive to bring glory to the country and inspire a new generation of sports lovers.