Bharat’s Manu Bhaker secured her place in the final of the women’s 25m pistol event at the Paris Olympics 2024. She achieved this by finishing 2nd in the qualification round with a total score of 590 points across both precision and rapid rounds, just 2 points behind Hungary’s Veronika Major, who tied the Olympic qualification record with 592 points.
Despite a challenging start in the precision round, where she only managed 2 10s out of her first 5 shots, Bhaker regained her composure. She followed up with 5 consecutive 10s, concluding the series on a strong note.
Her scores in the precision and rapid rounds were 97, 98, 99 and 100, 98, 98 respectively.
Bhaker’s rapid round performance was particularly impressive, starting with a perfect 100 in the first series and maintaining high scores throughout, culminating in a total of 590 points and securing her spot in the final. Her performance was a significant improvement in the second and third series of the precision round, where she scored 98 and nearly achieved a perfect run.
Esha Singh, also competing in the qualification round, finished in 18th place. Singh’s scores were inconsistent, with a starting round of 95 and 96, followed by a perfect 100 to end the precision round in 10th place. Her rapid round was marked by fluctuating scores, ultimately leading to a 97 and 96 in the first two series and a final score of 97.
Manu Bhaker will now compete in the final of the women’s 25m pistol event on August 3 at 1:30 PM IST, where she will aim for her third medal of the Games. Bhaker had previously won bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and the mixed 10m air pistol events.
