A meeting that would be etched in the memory books was the one between Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and double-Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker on Friday, August 30. The young 22-year-old shooter created history at the Paris Olympics 2024 to become the first female shooter from India to have won an Olympic medal. Her star performance at the games won Bhaker a bronze medal in the 10-meter air pistol event and another in the mixed team with partner Sarabjot Singh.
That was an incredible feat, which made her the first independent India athlete to win two medals in a single Olympic edition. After feeling overwhelmed for the chance to meet her idol, Bhaker took to social media to share the special moment. She admired Tendulkar for what transpired in cricket to help inspire her and many others to pursue their dreams.
“The one and only Sachin Tendulkar sir! Blessed to share this special moment with the cricketing icon! His journey motivated me, and many of us, to chase our dreams. Thank you sir for unforgettable memories!” she shared on her Instagram account along with a picture of their meeting.
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Tendulkar, always known for his modesty and respect for fellow athletes, replied in equal measure. He expressed his delight to meet Bhaker and her family since she was an inspiration to young girls in the country. “Meeting you and your family was something special, Manu. Your success story is now an inspiration for young girls everywhere to dream big and reach their targets. Keep striving for excellence and setting new benchmarks-India is cheering for you,” replied Tendulkar.
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Now, this meeting was something extra special for Manu Bhaker, who had listed Indian sporting icons such as Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and MS Dhoni along with Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt as her role models. She had been expressive about her wish to meet these icons for very long, and this moment with Tendulkar was a dream come true.
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“Maybe I name a few of my favourites. Usain Bolt is one of them – I’ve read his book so many times and I’ve known his journey as well as I’ve watched so many of his interviews too. And then, in India, cricketers Sachin Tendulkar, Dhoni sir, and Virat Kohli. It would be an honor to spend even an hour with any of them,” Bhaker had shared.
