Manu Bhaker: A rising star to lead India as flag bearer at Paris Olympics closing ceremony

Manu Bhaker, a well-known shooter from India, has been selected to represent India as flag bearer at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. This prestigious role will see Bhaker leading the Indian delegation during the closing ceremony on Sunday. Bhaker’s selection is a testament to her exceptional achievements in shooting, having earned two bronze medals at the Games.

“Yes, Manu has been chosen to be the flag bearer. She has done exceptionally well and deserves the honor,” an Indian Olympic Association (IOA) official told PTI. This recognition highlights Bhaker’s significant role and contributions to Indian sports.

India as Flag Bearer: A Symbol of National Pride

The position of flag bearer holds great significance both for the individual chosen and the country they represent. During the Olympic closing ceremony, the flag bearer symbolizes unity, national pride, and good sportsmanship. As the Games conclude, carrying the national flag is a powerful emblem of a nation’s identity and its collective spirit.

Manu Bhaker’s selection as the flag bearer underscores her achievements and the respect she has garnered from both the Indian contingent and the global shooting community. Her role will not only represent India’s sporting success but also reflect the nation’s pride and unity on the world stage.

Achievements Leading to India as Flag Bearer

Bhaker, 22, made history by becoming the first Indian markswoman to win an Olympic medal at the Paris Games. She secured bronze in the individual 10m air pistol event and went on to win another bronze in the 10m air pistol mixed team event alongside Sarabjot Singh. “There are many in the contingent who are more deserving but it will be a real honor if I am asked to,” Bhaker had expressed earlier regarding the possibility of being the flag bearer.

In addition to Bhaker’s two bronze medals, her teammate Swapnil Kushale earned a third bronze for India in the men’s 50m Rifle Three Positions event. Bhaker’s selection to carry the flag reflects her outstanding achievements and the respect she has earned from the Indian contingent and the global shooting community.

Manu Bhaker’s journey in shooting began at the age of 14 in Jhajjar, Haryana. Her rapid rise in the sport saw her achieving notable victories, including gold medals at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games and the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Her impressive performance at the 2019 ISSF World Cup in New Delhi, where she won gold in the women’s 10m air pistol competition, marked her debut on the international stage.

Despite facing challenges and the burden of expectations leading up to the Paris Olympics, Bhaker’s perseverance and dedication enabled her to secure a place on the Indian team. Her achievements in the individual 10m air pistol and mixed team events are significant milestones in her career.

Bhaker’s success extends beyond her personal accomplishments. She has become a role model for aspiring shooters in India, inspiring a new generation to pursue the sport. Her historic wins have not only enhanced her own reputation but have also contributed to India’s growing prominence in shooting sports.

Mary Kom and Manpreet Singh created history at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by being the first couple to carry the Indian flag together during the opening ceremony. Bhaker’s role as the flag bearer at the 2024 Olympics will continue this tradition of highlighting India’s achievements and its representatives’ contributions to the global sporting arena.

In conclusion, Manu Bhaker’s selection as the flag bearer represents a proud moment for India. Her exceptional achievements and role in carrying the national flag will be a powerful symbol of unity and national pride as the Olympics conclude in Paris. Bhaker’s journey from a young shooter in Jhajjar to becoming a key figure in Indian sports exemplifies dedication and excellence, making her selection as the flag bearer a fitting tribute to her remarkable career.

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