Manu Bhaker Biography : Manu Bhaker, a name synonymous with excellence in Indian shooting sports, has carved a niche for herself as one of the most promising young athletes in the world. Born on February 18, 2002, in Jhajjar, Haryana, Manu’s journey from a small village to the international shooting arena is a tale of hard work, determination, and resilience. She has not only made her mark in the sport but has also become a source of inspiration for many aspiring athletes across the country. This biography delves into her early life, career milestones, achievements, and the challenges she faced along the way, culminating in her historic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Personal Information
| Full Name | Manu Bhaker |
| Date of Birth | February 18, 2002 |
| Age | 22 years |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Height | 1.67 m (5 ft 6 in) |
| Profession | Sport Shooter |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Net Worth | Approx. $1 million (₹8 Crores) |
| Residence | Jhajjar, Haryana |
| Parents | Ram Kishan Bhaker (Father), Name not disclosed (Mother) |
| Siblings | One brother |
| Social Media |
Early Life and Background
Manu Bhaker was born in Goria village, located in the Jhajjar district of Haryana, a state renowned for producing many sports talents. Her father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, a chief engineer in the Merchant Navy, played a pivotal role in nurturing her passion for sports. From a young age, Manu exhibited a keen interest in various athletic disciplines, including boxing, tennis, skating, and traditional Manipuri martial arts like Huyen Langlon. She excelled in these sports, winning national-level medals and showcasing her versatility as an athlete.
At the age of 14, inspired by the 2016 Rio Olympics, Manu decided to focus on shooting. Her father supported her ambition by investing ₹1,50,000 in her training and equipment, marking the beginning of her competitive shooting journey. With a strong foundation in various sports, Manu quickly adapted to shooting, demonstrating remarkable talent and determination.
Career Beginnings
Manu’s professional shooting career began in earnest when she participated in the 2017 Asian Junior Championships, where she won a silver medal. This early success set the stage for her future achievements. Later that year, during the National Games held in Kerala, she stunned the shooting community by winning nine gold medals and setting a new national record in the 10m air pistol event, surpassing the previous record held by Olympian Heena Sidhu.
Her breakthrough moment came in 2018 when she achieved multiple milestones, including her first gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia, where she triumphed in the women’s 10m air pistol event. This victory not only established her as a formidable competitor but also made her one of the youngest athletes to achieve such success on an international platform.
Rise to Prominence
Major Achievements
Manu Bhaker’s rise to prominence in the shooting world is marked by several significant achievements:
- Youth Olympic Games 2018: Manu made history by becoming the first Indian shooter to win a gold medal at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in the women’s 10m air pistol event.
- Commonwealth Games 2018: At just 16 years old, she won gold in the women’s 10m air pistol event, setting a new Commonwealth Games record with a score of 240.9 points.
- ISSF World Cup 2018: Manu won her first gold medal at the ISSF World Cup in Guadalajara, Mexico, making her the youngest Indian to achieve this feat.
- Asian Games 2018: She broke the game record in the qualification round of the 25m air pistol event, scoring 593 points, although she finished sixth in the final.
- World Championships: Manu continued to excel, securing a gold medal in the mixed team event at the 2019 ISSF World Cup in Delhi alongside her partner, Abhishek Verma.
Tokyo Olympics Heartbreak
Manu’s journey took a challenging turn during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which were postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She entered the Games with high expectations but faced disappointment, finishing without a medal despite competing in three events. The emotional toll of her performance left her questioning her future in the sport, leading to a period of disillusionment.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite her early successes, Manu faced several challenges throughout her career. The pressure of expectations, particularly after her achievements at a young age, weighed heavily on her. The disappointment at the Tokyo Olympics was a significant setback, leading her to contemplate stepping away from the sport to pursue higher education abroad.
In 2023, feeling that shooting had become a routine “9 to 5 job,” she reached out to her former coach, Jaspal Rana, to rekindle her passion for the sport. Their reunion marked a turning point, as they both were determined to move past their differences and work towards achieving her Olympic dreams.
The Road to Paris 2024
Manu’s renewed dedication and hard work paid off as she prepared for the 2024 Paris Olympics. She participated in several competitions leading up to the Games, showcasing her skills and determination. Her efforts culminated in a historic moment at the Paris Olympics, where she won a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event, becoming the first Indian woman shooter to achieve this feat.
Performance at Paris 2024
In the final held at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre, Manu started strong, scoring 50.4 in the first series. Despite facing challenges in subsequent series, she maintained her composure and ultimately secured the bronze medal with a total score of 221.7. This victory not only marked a significant achievement for Manu but also opened India’s medal account at the Paris Olympics, earning her nationwide admiration and recognition.
Brand Endorsements and Net Worth
As of 2024, Manu Bhaker’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million (approximately ₹8 crores). Her earnings stem from various sources, including prize money from competitions, sponsorship deals, and endorsements. Some of the notable brands associated with her include:
- Puma: Manu has signed an endorsement deal with this global sports brand, promoting their athletic apparel and footwear.
- JSW Group: The conglomerate supports her training and development as part of their initiative to promote sports in India.
- Various local brands: Manu has collaborated with several local brands, enhancing her visibility and influence in the sports community.
These endorsements not only contribute to her financial stability but also help raise awareness about shooting sports in India.
Social Media Handles
- Instagram : @bhakermanu
Conclusion Of Manu Bhaker Biography
Manu Bhaker’s journey from a small village in Haryana to the Olympic podium is a remarkable story of perseverance, talent, and ambition. Her achievements in shooting have not only made her a national hero but also an inspiration for countless young athletes aspiring to excel in sports. The bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics is a testament to her hard work and dedication, proving that dreams can be realized through perseverance and commitment.
As she continues to compete at the highest level, Manu Bhaker’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential within each individual to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. With her competitive spirit and unwavering determination, she is poised to make a significant impact on the sport in the years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manu Bhaker’s age?
Manu Bhaker was born on February 18, 2002, making her 22 years old as of 2024.
What are Manu Bhaker’s major achievements?
Manu Bhaker’s major achievements include winning a gold medal at the Youth Olympic Games 2018, gold medals at the Commonwealth Games 2018, and a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
How did Manu Bhaker perform at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics?
Manu Bhaker faced disappointment at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, finishing without a medal despite competing in three events.
What is Manu Bhaker’s net worth?
As of 2024, Manu Bhaker’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million (approximately ₹8 crores).
What sports did Manu Bhaker participate in before shooting?
Before taking up shooting, Manu excelled in various sports, including boxing, tennis, skating, and traditional Manipuri martial arts.
Who is Manu Bhaker’s coach?
Manu Bhaker’s coach is Jaspal Rana, with whom she rekindled her relationship in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
What is Manu Bhaker’s social media presence?
Manu Bhaker is active on social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where she shares updates about her career and engages with her fans.
What challenges did Manu Bhaker face in her career?
Manu faced challenges such as the pressure of expectations, disappointment at the Tokyo Olympics, and a period of disillusionment with the sport.
What is Manu Bhaker’s shooting style?
Manu Bhaker is known for her precision and composure under pressure, which has contributed to her success in shooting competitions.
What are Manu Bhaker’s future goals?
Manu Bhaker aims to continue competing at the highest level, improve her skills, and achieve further success in international shooting competitions.
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