Double Olympics Medallist Manu Bhaker Opens Up On Her Conversation With Javelin Star Neeraj Chopra, Says THIS

Two Indian athletes who were the toast of the nation at the Paris Olympics 2024 were shooter Manu Bhaker and javelin star Neeraj Chopra. While Manu became first Indian athlete after Independence to win two Olympic medals at a single edition of the Games while Neeraj won back-to-back Olympic medal by bringing home a silver last month.

Manu Bhaker and Neeraj Chopra became talking points for the entire nation when the Javelin star’s video of an interaction with the Indian shooter’s mother went viral on social media. On during an interaction with a TV channel, Manu Bhaker opened up on her interaction with Neeraj Chopra in Paris.

“One interaction that stood out was with Neeraj Chopra after the Games. Meeting someone who has achieved so much and has become a role model for many was inspiring. Our conversation revolved around the pressures of competition and the importance of mental strength, which resonated deeply with me. It was a reminder that we, as athletes, share similar experiences and challenges,” Manu Bhaker was quoted as saying by NDTV.

 

Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker are talking to each other as if they have a crush on each other. I am getting wild ideas on getting India a couple of future super athletes. pic.twitter.com/KXsTZDGq8y

— Lord Immy Kant (Eastern Exile) (@KantInEast) August 11, 2024

After a spate of viral memes and posts on social media, Manu Bhaker’s father – Ram Kishan Bhaker – has opened up, sharing that she is ‘still too young’ and they are ‘not thinking of her marriage’. “Manu is still very young. She is not even of marriageable age. I’m not even thinking about it right now.” Manu Bhaker’s father was quoted as saying by Dainik Bhaskar.

Manu went onto win two Olympic medals in Paris – bronze in 10m women’s air pistol event and another bronze with Sarabjot Singh in the mixed team 10m pistol event. Asked about her happiest memory till date, Manu said, “My happiest memory is undoubtedly winning my first Olympic medal. The emotions of that moment, the joy of representing my country, and the support from my family and friends made it unforgettable. The three words that best describe me would be determined, passionate, and resilient.”

The 22-year-old Indian shooter has been overwhelmed the attention and love she has received since returning to the country from Paris.

“Being the first Indian athlete to achieve this remarkable feat has brought a wave of new opportunities and responsibilities. My life has become a blend of heightened recognition and inspiring others, with each day offering a chance to build on this legacy. After the disappointment at the Tokyo Olympics, this achievement has brought pride and recognition to me. Upon returning to India, I was overwhelmed with love and support, and the honour of carrying the national flag during the closing ceremony was a deeply emotional moment for me. This journey has underscored the significance of community, with my coach and fellow athletes providing unwavering support and reminding me that emotional connections are vital for an athlete’s well-being,” Manu said.