Rahul Dravid, ex Indian captain and head coach, praised Manu Bhaker for staying strong and overcoming her difficulties at the Tokyo Olympics. This helped India win its first medal at the current Games in Paris.
Manu is now participating in her second Olympics and has already faced the toughest challenges that can happen to an athlete in such a big event.
Three years ago, at the Tokyo Olympics, Manu faced a problem with her pistol, which hurt her chances of winning a medal in her first Olympics.
The incident shook her confidence, and she was close to giving up when her parents and coach gave her hope.
Dravid praised Manu for her “amazing accomplishment” and said that such achievements need “many years of giving up things, a lot of hard work, staying strong, and not giving up.”
“Manu’s story is amazing. After the disappointment at the Tokyo Olympics, to come here and overcome that to compete and win a bronze medal is an amazing accomplishment,” Dravid said during a discussion at India House in Paris, as reported by PTI.
“It’s wonderful to be here on a day that’s important for Indian sports. These achievements require many years of dedication, a lot of effort, and the ability to keep going despite challenges.
“We understand how tough it is for athletes and what they endure, and so much hinges on these crucial days.”
Dravid believes that Manu’s “inspiring story” will likely encourage more children in India to pursue the sport as a career.
“I can understand the stress they face in these sports, as this is the highest level they can achieve. Nothing is bigger than this, and for her to succeed is really a fantastic day for Indian sports. It’s an amazing story that will inspire many people back in India,” he said.
