Indian Sensation Manu Bhaker Meets Legendary 10-Time Olympian Nino Salukvadze Ahead of Paris Olympics 2024

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Indian shooting sensation Manu Bhaker recently had a memorable meeting with Georgian legend Nino Salukvadze, a 10-time Olympian and one of the most respected figures in the sport.

Salukvadze, who has competed in every Olympic Games since 1988, has an illustrious career marked by resilience and excellence. Her longevity and success in the sport have made her a role model for many, and her insights are invaluable to up-and-coming athletes and Manu Bhaker was no different.

Bhaker and Salukvadze spoke on an array of topics from training regimes to performances. Watch their heart warming conversation below:

Meeting Nino Salukvadze was more than just an exchange of pleasantries for Bhaker; it was an opportunity to gain insights from a seasoned athlete whose career exemplifies success and perseverance.

While a star-struck Manu Bhaker wished to see Salukvadze for 'three-four-five' more Olympic Games to come, the Georgian legendary shooter revealed that she might return as a coach but not as a participant.

Salukvadze's journey in the shooting world is nothing but a fairytale. She was the flag bearer for Georgia at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games in London. She has not only consistently qualified for the Olympics over three decades but also claimed multiple medals - a gold and a silver in Seoul 1988, and a bronze in Beijing 2008.

Her ability to adapt and maintain high performance levels over such an extended period is extraordinary. Salukvadze's approach to training, mental fortitude, and her philosophy of persistent hard work have inspired countless athletes globally.

As for Manu Bhaker, the shooter had a lackluster performance at her debut Olympics in Tokyo. Bhaker, the world number one at the time, was unable to qualify for the final of the women's 10m air pistol event and was forced to return home empty-handed.

Now, three years later, Manu Bhaker is leading India's 21-person shooting team in Paris, with a lot of pressure on them to get the country off to a great start at the multisport event.

Manu is the only Indian shooter in Paris who will compete in three events. She will compete in the women's 10m air pistol, 10m mixed team pistol, and 25m sports pistol events at the Paris Olympics.