Paris Olympics Bronze Medalist Manu Bhaker Meets Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai, Shares Unforgettable Moments with Cricket Legend

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Manu Bhaker, India's double bronze medallist at the Paris 2024 Olympics, had a momentous meeting with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and his family in Mumbai on Friday, August 30.

The young shooter from Haryana has become a national sensation following her historic performance in Paris, where she clinched two bronze medals. Her achievements have not only broken a 12-year Olympic shooting medal drought for India but have also elevated her status among the country’s most celebrated athletes.

The 22-year-old was visibly thrilled to meet Tendulkar, someone she has long admired. She shared her excitement on Instagram, posting several pictures from the meeting. In one of the snapshots, she proudly displayed her Olympic medals while receiving a memento from the cricketing icon.

Bhaker expressed her gratitude, writing, “The one and only Sachin Tendulkar sir! Feeling blessed to share this special moment with the cricketing icon! His journey motivated me and many of us to chase our dreams. Thank you sir for unforgettable memories!”

Manu’s Olympic medals came in the 10m air pistol mixed team event and the 25m pistol event. These victories made her the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single Olympic edition, an achievement that has further solidified her legacy. Overall, India secured six medals at the Paris Games, and Manu's double bronze added significant value to the nation's tally.

Tendulkar, known for his humility and encouragement of young talent, responded warmly to Manu’s post. He tweeted, “Meeting you and your family was truly special, Manu. Your success story is now a source of inspiration for young girls everywhere to dream big and achieve their targets. Keep striving for excellence and setting new benchmarks—India is cheering for you!”

This meeting was particularly significant for Manu, who had previously expressed a desire to meet sports legends like Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Usain Bolt.

“Maybe I’ll name a few of my favourites. Usain Bolt is one of them. I’ve read his book so many times and I’ve known his journey as well as I’ve watched so many of his interviews too. And then, in India, cricketers Sachin Tendulkar, Dhoni sir MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli. It would be an honour to spend even an hour with any of them!” Manu had said.