Manu Bhaker, the world-class Indian shooter mentioned that she had ‘the jitters’ during Saturday’s 25-meter pistol final. She finished fourth and missed on an unprecedented third individual Olympic medal at Chateauroux.
The 22-year-old had earlier won two bronze medals in women’s 10m air pistol and mixed team competition in 10m air pistol alongside Sarabjot Singh.
“But I was very nervous about it, well again I was trying my best to stay calm and just do my best anyhow. That was not enough,” Manu said after the event according to Parami News.
However, Manu was downcast after completing the eight-shooter final round with a score of 28, but lost out to eventual bronze medallist Veronika Major of Hungary.
“It was fine for me (Olympics), but there is always another opportunity so I am looking forward to it already,” she said.
“I am happy that I got two medals but right now, no…well fourth place is not a good position,” replied Manu tearfully.
Manu claimed that her mind was literally turned off and did not distract her from everyone else’s requests.
“Honestly, I have been far away from social media and haven’t checked my phone so I don’t know what’s going on. But all I know is that I tried my best and wanted to give a good performance,” she stated.
“In most of the competitions, including this one where I didn’t do so well. Immediately when my match ended, like ‘okay next time’,” Manu said while already aiming for the Los Angeles Olympic games in 2028
“There has been much hard work being done behind the scenes here. All these people you see around because several people are working day by day towards this moment for me to be on top and India gets a medal.” she said
“My whole squad was present there with me throughout in my journey and I am so happy,” Manu said.
