Indian shooter Sarabjot Singh received a special call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi after his bronze medal win in Paris Olympics on Tuesday, 30 July. The PM took time out to drop a call to Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh, who secured India's second medal at the Paris Olympics, earning a bronze in the 10m Air Pistol mixed team event at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre.
This marked India's second shooting medal of the ongoing Paris Games, following Manu's bronze in the women's 10m air pistol event. India led 4-2 after the third series and extended their lead to 8-2 after the fifth. Although South Korea narrowed the gap to 10-6 after the eighth series, the Indian duo maintained their composure to secure a comfortable victory.
PM Modi was prompt to call Sarabjot after his event and wanted to congratulate the mix team pair. However, he only caught Sarabjot because Manu Bhaker was unavailable due to a regulation dope test after the event.
"Many, many, many, congratulations to you. You have made your country proud. Your hard work has paid off. Congratulate Manu from my side. You were close in the individual competition, but in team event you achieved glory. Really well done. Your teamwork with Manu, what is the secret behind that?" PM Modi asked over the phone to Sarabjot Singh.
"Since 2019 we have been playing together in nationals, junior World Cups and other World Cups, we are hoping that we win Gold next time," Sarabjot replied to PM Modi.
Sarabjot Singh scripted his redemption in the 10m pistol mixed event by winning a bronze medal. A few days ago, Sarabjot had a heart-breaking debut at the Games as he missed out on the final berth in the men's 10m pistol event on Saturday, July 27, by a whisker. The duo of Sarabjot and Manu created history as they brought India their second medal in the Paris Olympics 2024. The young shooter conquered heartbreak to win a bronze medal in Paris.
"I have complete faith in you guys. Manu has to prepare for her 25m event, once again many congratulations to you," PM Modi concluded.
After the event, Sarabjot Singh set his sights on a greater goal: winning gold at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Sarabjot said he was not satisfied with his performance despite winning the bronze, emphasising his desire to achieve more in the next Olympics.
Source: India Today