In 2018, Manu Bhaker became the first shooter representing India to win a gold medal at the Youth Olympic Games. She claimed victory in the 10m air pistol event in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This achievement marked a significant milestone in her career.

Her accolades include the Best Young Athlete award in the girls' category at the 2019 Sportstar Aces Awards. Additionally, she received the Best Sportsperson of the Year Award from the Delhi Sports Journalists Association in 2019. In 2020, she was honoured with the Arjuna Award by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in India.

Training and Coaching

Manu Bhaker trains for up to six hours a day, incorporating yoga and physical training sessions into her routine. Since 2023, she has been coached by Jaspal Rana, who plays a crucial role in her training regime.

Challenges and Learnings

At the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Manu competed in three events. Her highest finish was seventh in the mixed team 10m air pistol event. However, her performances were affected by an equipment malfunction. Despite these challenges, she has no regrets and views these experiences as part of her chosen path.

"There's no guidebook you get at the start of your athletic career explaining how to deal with failure," she said. "I chose this life and by that I didn't just choose the medals and fame but everything else that comes with it."

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Manu Bhaker aims to continue her training and improve her performance. With her dedication and support from coach Jaspal Rana, she is focused on achieving greater success in upcoming competitions.

Personal Background

Manu Bhaker resides in India and is fluent in English and Hindi. She pursued higher education in Political Science at the University of Delhi. Her diverse background includes competing in boxing, tennis, and thang-ta at a national level in India.

Manu Bhaker's journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication. From winning gold at the Youth Olympic Games to overcoming challenges at the Tokyo Olympics, she continues to inspire many with her achievements and determination.