Sainyam Clinches Silver in Women's 10m Air Pistol, Opens India's Medal Account at ISSF World Cup Hangzhou

India's campaign at the ISSF World Cup Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun in Hangzhou, China, got off to a promising start as Sainyam claimed the silver medal in the women's 10m air pistol event, earning the country's first podium finish of the tournament.

The 22-year-old shooter delivered a composed display in the final, scoring 243.4 to secure second place against a strong international field. Earlier in the qualification round, she shot 579 to progress to the medal round.

Congratulating the young shooter, National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) President Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo lauded her consistency and temperament.

"Sainyam's podium finish in Hangzhou is a testament to her dedication and technical discipline on the world stage. Competing against a top-tier international field requires immense composure, and her performance reflects the high standards she consistently strives for. We commend her hard work and wish her continued success."

NRAI Secretary General Pawankumar Singh highlighted her growth from the junior circuit to the senior international stage.

"Sainyam's progression from winning medals at the junior level to standing on senior World Cup podiums demonstrates her growth as an elite shooter. Her resilience under pressure continues to inspire young athletes coming through our domestic system."

The silver medal continues Sainyam's impressive run of form. She had recently won the 10m Air Pistol Trial 2 at the National Selection Trials in New Delhi with a score of 243.1, following another silver medal at the ISSF World Cup Final in Doha.

The Chandigarh shooter has steadily built an impressive resume over the past few years, winning gold medals at the ISSF Junior World Cup in Suhl and the ISSF Junior World Championships in Changwon in 2023, while also finishing on the podium at the Khelo India Youth Games.

India also had another finalist in the event as Suruchi Inder Singh finished seventh after scoring 137.6 in the final. She had qualified with 579-20x.

In the qualification round, Manu Bhaker, competing under Ranking Points Only (RPO) status, topped the Indian shooters with 582-12x. Esha Singh narrowly missed the final after finishing 13th with 577-22x, while Lakshita, also shooting under RPO status, registered 572-14x