The 2024 Paris Olympics have already become a landmark event for India, with shooting sensation Manu Bhaker etching her name in the nation's sporting history. The 22-year-old from Haryana has clinched two bronze medals, becoming the first Indian woman to win multiple medals in a single Olympic Games.
Bhaker's exceptional marksmanship first earned her a bronze in the individual 10m air pistol event. She followed this remarkable feat with another bronze in the mixed team 10m air pistol competition, partnering with Sarbajot Singh. This double medal haul has not only showcased Bhaker's talent and determination but has also reignited India's passion for Olympic success.
As the nation celebrates Bhaker's achievements, attention is now shifting to another Olympic hero - Neeraj Chopra. The javelin thrower, who captured India's imagination by winning gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, is set to defend his title in Paris. Expectations are sky-high as Chopra prepares to take center stage in the coming days.
Chopra's quest for gold will begin on August 6th with the qualifying round, scheduled to start at 1:50 PM IST. The Group B qualifiers will follow at 3:20 PM IST. Should Chopra advance to the finals, as many expect him to, he will compete for a medal on August 8th. The men's javelin throw final is slated for a prime-time slot, beginning at 11:55 PM IST.
The anticipation surrounding Chopra's performance is palpable across India. His historic gold medal in Tokyo, which ended India's 100-year wait for an athletics medal at the Olympics, has raised hopes for a repeat performance in Paris. Chopra's consistent performances in international competitions since Tokyo have only fueled these expectations.
As India awaits Chopra's turn to shine, the nation continues to bask in the glory of Manu Bhaker's achievements. Her double medal win has already made these Olympics special for India, and there's a growing sense that this could be just the beginning of a medal rush for the country.
The Paris Olympics have so far proved to be a stage where Indian athletes are making their mark. With established stars like Bhaker delivering and the promise of more to come from icons like Chopra, India's Olympic journey in 2024 is shaping up to be one for the history books. As the games progress, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping for more moments of triumph and glory on the global stage.