The Momma Clan

No medals, yet so many reasons to smile…

Day 7 of the Paris 2024 Olympics was a momentous occasion for Indian athletes, marked by groundbreaking performances and thrilling encounters. From badminton courts to archery fields and shooting ranges, Indian athletes showcased their prowess and grit, leaving a mark on the global stage. Here’s a detailed recap of the day’s highlights that saw India scripting new chapters in its Olympic journey.

Lakshya Sen’s Historic Feat in Badminton

Lakshya Sen etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian man to reach the singles semi-final in badminton at the Olympics. In an intense quarter final clash, he defeated Chou Tien Chen of Chinese Taipei in a match that tested both players’ endurance and skill.

Archery Milestones: Ankita Bhakat and Dhiraj Bommadevara

In archery, Ankita Bhakat and Dhiraj Bommadevara made headlines by becoming the first Indians to reach the semi-finals in mixed-team archery at the Olympics. Their performance was a mix of precision, focus, and resilience against some of the world’s best teams.

In the bronze medal match, Ankita and Dhiraj faced off against USA’s Casey Kaufhold and Brady Ellison. Despite a valiant effort, the Indian duo missed out on securing India’s first-ever Olympic medal in archery, finishing in fourth place.

Their journey, however, remains historic. Ankita and Dhiraj’s performances have paved the way for future Indian archers, showing that competing at the highest level is within reach. Their achievement sets a benchmark and motivates the next generation of Indian archers to strive for Olympic glory.

Shooting Glory: Manu Bhaker’s Triple Final Feat

Manu Bhaker continued her sensational run at the Paris Olympics, adding yet another feather to her cap by becoming the first Indian to qualify for three finals in a single edition of the Olympics. She demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill across different events, solidifying her reputation as one of India’s finest shooters.

Manu finished second in the women’s 25m pistol qualification, showcasing her technical prowess and mental fortitude.

With two bronze medals already in the 10m pistol shooting, Manu is poised to aim for more podium finishes, adding to her growing medal tally.

Indian Men’s Hockey: Historic Win Over Australia

In a thrilling encounter on the hockey field, the Indian men’s hockey team registered a historic 3-2 victory over Australia. This win marks the first time India has beaten the mighty Kookaburras at the Olympics since the Munich 1972 games, breaking a long-standing jinx.

This win is a monumental achievement for Indian hockey, rekindling the nation’s long-standing love affair with the sport. It serves as a reminder of India’s rich hockey legacy and the potential for future success on the world stage.

Conclusion

Day 7 of the Paris 2024 Olympics was a day of historic firsts for India. The achievements of Lakshya Sen, Ankita Bhakat, Dhiraj Bommadevara, Manu Bhaker, and the men’s hockey team are a testament to the talent, hard work, and determination of Indian athletes. Their performances have not only brought pride to the nation but have also inspired millions to dream big and aim for excellence.

As the Olympics progress, India eagerly anticipates more moments of triumph and inspiration. These athletes have set the bar high, and their legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to chase their Olympic dreams.

-Arwa Saifi