- Manu Bhaker named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year for 2024 after a global public vote.
- The 22-year-old was recognized for her historic achievement of becoming the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medalsin a single Game.
- Bhaker made history as the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting
Olympic shooter Manu Bhaker has been crowned BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year for 2024, following a global public vote.The 22-year-old was honored for her remarkable achievement as the first Indian woman to win two medals at a single Olympic Games. Manu made history by becoming the first Indian woman to secure an Olympic shooting medal, clinching bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the Paris Olympics.
Two days after winning her first bronze, Manusecured a second bronze in the mixed 10m air pistol, alongside Sarabjot Singh. Manu has previously won the BBC ISWOTY Emerging Athlete of the Year award.
Upon accepting her latest award, Bhaker stated, "I have had a journey of ups and downs. I hope I can inspire women, athletes, and people with big dreams. "Your journey doesn't end if you are struggling. You write your own story."
Avani Lekhara, fellow shooter, was awarded the BBC ISWOTY Para-sportswoman of the Year award.At 23 years old; she became the first Indian woman to win three Paralympic medals. Gold in Paris 2024, Gold and bronze at Tokyo 2020.Indian President Droupadi Murmu expressed appreciation for the BBC's initiative of organizing the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year award.
BBC Director General Tim Davie hosted the awards ceremony.He highlighted Manu historic Olympic performance as a defining moment for Indian sports. Her journey from a promising young shooter to a record-breaking Olympian inspires athletes both in India and globally.
Tim expressed honor in celebrating Avani Lekhara as the Para-sportswoman of the Year. Avani resilience and record-breaking success pave the way for greater inclusion and excellence in Para-sports. He emphasized the BBC's commitment to Indian audiences and expressed pride in celebrating the achievements of India’s incredible sportswomen.
Archer Sheetal Devi won the Emerging Athlete Award after becoming India's youngest Paralympic medallist. At 18 years old, she won a bronze medal at the Paris Games. She also earned two gold’s and one silver at the 2022 Asian Para Games and silver at the World Para Archery Championships.
Mithali Raj received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her record 18-year captaincy of the Indian women's cricket team. Mithali, 42, led the team from 2004 to 2022.She holds the record for the longest-serving captain in international cricket history.
Rupa Jha, CEO of Collective Newsroom, expressed delight in the impact of the awards on Indian women in sports.The awards amplify their achievements, break barriers, and inspire future generations.Sheemphasized that the awards are not only about recognition but also about creating a lasting impact on the sporting landscape of India and beyond.This year’s theme, "Champions' Champions," highlighted the unsung heroes who have supported and shaped medal-winning athletes.
