Manu Bhaker Prepares For Asian Games And Worlds Ahead Of Olympic Qualification Cycle
Manu Bhaker gears up for Olympic qualification cycle, targeting Asian Games and World Championships.
India’s double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker has expressed renewed confidence as she prepares for the upcoming competitive season, with the qualification cycle for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics set to begin this year. After a relatively quiet period following her success at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the 24-year-old shooter is focused on regaining her competitive rhythm.
Speaking on the sidelines of an event marking 75 years of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), Bhaker said she is targeting key tournaments such as the Asian Games and the World Championships later this year. She noted that she and her coach have already mapped out a detailed preparation plan, expressing confidence that the groundwork has been laid for strong performances in the upcoming events.
Bhaker, who hails from Jhajjar in Haryana, has had a comparatively subdued run since her Olympic achievements, though she secured a silver medal in the 10m air pistol event at a World Cup last year and another silver in the 25m pistol event at the Asian Championships in New Delhi this year. She indicated that these performances have helped maintain her form while she builds toward bigger competitions.
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The shooter also welcomed the return of shooting to the programme of the 2030 Commonwealth Games, which India is set to host. She recalled that her breakthrough came at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games and said she is looking forward to competing on home soil. Bhaker added that she expects India to perform strongly when the Games are held.
Reflecting on her personal journey, Bhaker spoke about developing a deeper spiritual outlook around the time of the Paris Olympics, describing it as an ongoing and fulfilling aspect of her life. She also commented on emerging cricket talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, saying that age should not be a barrier if the right mentorship and environment are in place. Bhaker is next scheduled to compete at the ISSF World Cup Munich, where she will look to build momentum ahead of a crucial season. With major international events approaching, she remains focused on sharpening her skills and re-establishing herself among the top shooters on the global stage.
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