‘Why will I not?’, Manu Bhaker slams social media trolls for questioning her for wearing Paris Olympics 2024 medals

Manu Bhaker won bronze medals in both the women’s 10-metre air pistol event and the 10-metre air pistol mixed team event at the Paris Olympics 2024.

New Delhi: Shooter Manu Bhaker made history last month when she became the first-ever sportsperson from Independent India to strike gold multiple times at a single Olympic Games, winning bronze in both the women’s 10-metre air pistol and 10-metre air pistol mixed team events at the Paris Olympics 2024. While Manu cleaned up on the podium, she faced withering criticism across social media for carrying her Olympic medals to public events, something she promptly silenced with a sharp response.

“I will, yeah! Why will I not?” Manu Bhaker confidently responded when asked by the *Times of India* about the online criticism regarding her being seen with her bronze medals at events.

Manu Bhaker clarified that she was compelled to bring her medals to these events at the request of the organizers.

Meet highest-paid female athlete in India, it’s not Manu Bhaker, Vinesh Phogat, Sania Mirza, Saina Nehwal

“Everyone has this feeling to show the medal which is why I carry it in case someone wants to see it. They even make a request saying, ‘Please, bring your medal along’ and when I do bring it, several pictures get snapped at these events,” the double Olympic medallist revealed.

During a conversation with NDTV, the pistol shooter shared insights about her journey to the Paris Olympics 2024 and the recognition she received after securing two bronze medals.

“Honestly I would not like to switch my life with anybody at all. Chahe bura hi waqt chal rha ho (Even if the time is not good), I would not want to do that,” said Manu.

When asked if she had any other aspirations besides shooting, Manu replied, “Shooting is the love of my life, and I want to continue for as long as possible, winning as many medals for India as I can. I enjoy dressing up and other activities too, but shooting will always be my priority.”

During the conversation, Manu also shared how she manages her anger: “I do get angry, but I’ve learned to channel my anger into something positive. That’s really important for a sportsperson.”