Manu Bhaker is not just a prodigy. She is a testament to precision, endurance, and unyielding ambition. At just 22, her journey is a masterclass in determination. Hers is a career adorned with accolades, including two bronze medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Reflecting on the defining moments of her career, she notes, “From the first time I held a pistol, I knew I had found my purpose.” Her resilience, especially after the challenges she faced in Tokyo 2020, speaks volumes of her ability to evolve: “I realised I couldn’t change the past, but I could shape my future.” In conversation with ELLE India, Bhaker reveals the mindset, discipline, and personal sacrifices that have continued to propel her to greatness, making her one of the most formidable athletes of her generation.
ELLE: You began your athletic journey playing different sports. What was the turning point that made you pursue shooting full-time?
Manu Bhaker (MB): Shooting captivated me the moment I held a pistol in school. It wasn’t just a fleeting interest—it became a passion that consumed me for months. My parents, particularly my mother, recognised this and bought me my first pistol, which allowed me to fully commit to this sport. Their support has been essential in shaping my journey.
ELLE: At just 16, you won the gold at the ISSF World Cup. How did you handle such immense pressure, and what did that victory mean for your career?
MB: Winning gold at 16 was transformative. The pressure was immense, but I had to block out the noise and focus on my training. That victory didn’t just bring recognition—it helped me realise that I belonged on the global stage. It was proof that hard work, no matter how young you are, always pays off.
ELLE: Tokyo 2020 was difficult for you, but you bounced back with two bronze medals in Paris. How do you remain resilient through setbacks and highs alike?
MB: Tokyo was tough, no doubt. But every failure offers a lesson, and for me, it was understanding that I can’t control everything. What I could control was my preparation for the future. I learned to embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, and that shift in mindset helped me excel in Paris. Setbacks don’t define you—how you rise from them does.
ELLE: Competing in the Olympics is a defining milestone in an athlete’s career. What have you learned from that experience, and how will it shape your future aspirations?
MB: The Olympics teach you about handling pressure like nothing else. Competing at that level forces you to be mentally strong and unflinching. I’m keeping the same mindset for the future, as each competition is about growth. And yes, I’m aiming to upgrade my medal to gold!
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ELLE: You’ve had unique experiences during your travels for competitions. Can you share any standout moments?
MB: One of the most memorable experiences was a European road trip in a caravan with my senior teammates. We cooked, slept, and bonded as we travelled to different tournaments. It wasn’t just about competing—it was about exploring the world in a completely new way. Those are the kind of moments that stay with you beyond the sport.
ELLE: What passions or hobbies do you pursue to unwind outside of shooting?
MB: I love spending time with my family. It’s always been my biggest source of joy. I also like to explore new interests like reading and travelling to keep my mind fresh. These breaks allow me to recharge before diving back into training.
ELLE: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
MB: I would advise her to stay calm and patiently wait for her moment to shine. It’s possible to achieve anything in life. It just takes a little perseverance and a lot of patience.
Read the full story on ELLE India’s new issue, or download your digital copy via Magzter.
