Manu Bhaker eyes strong comeback as LA 2028 qualification cycle officially begins

Double Olympic medallist shooter Manu Bhaker is stepping into a fresh competitive phase with renewed confidence as the qualification cycle for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics gets underway. After a relatively quiet phase following her Paris Games success, the young pistol shooter says she is mentally refreshed and ready for the challenges ahead.

The 24 year old, who won two bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics , said her focus is now firmly on upcoming major tournaments including the Asian Games in Japan and the World Championships later this year .

Speaking at an event marking 75 years of the National Rifle Association of India , Bhaker said preparations are already in motion. She explained that she and her coach have reviewed the upcoming calendar in detail and structured their training around key competitions. She expressed confidence that the planning is on track and hopes for strong performances in the season ahead.

Since her Olympic success, Bhaker has had a quieter run on the circuit, though she did secure a silver medal in the 10 metre air pistol World Cup last year and another silver in the 25 metre pistol event at the Asian Championships in New Delhi this year.

Bhaker also welcomed the return of shooting to the 2030 Commonwealth Games in India , calling it a positive development. She recalled her own breakthrough at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and said it was unfortunate that the sport missed two editions. At the same time, she said hosting the Games in India adds excitement and expectation for strong performances from the home team.

Beyond sport, Bhaker shared that she has developed a deeper spiritual outlook since the Paris Olympics, calling it an important part of her personal growth.

Commenting on rising young cricket talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, she said age should never be a limitation if talent and guidance are in place, adding that potential can emerge at any stage of life with the right support system.

Bhaker will next be seen competing at the ISSF World Cup in Munich next month , as she continues her build up toward the new Olympic cycle.