Manu Bhaker's Asian Games Journey Ends Without Medals

In a surprising outcome at the Asian Games, India's double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker concluded her events without winning any medals. Competing in both the women's 25 m pistol and 10 m air pistol, Manu faced challenges that led to her early exit. Despite her previous successes, including a gold medal in the team event, her individual performances fell short. The Indian shooting team, however, has had a successful year overall, securing multiple medals. Read on to explore the details of Manu's journey and India's achievements in shooting.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 28, 2026, 11:19 IST

Manu Bhaker's Disappointing Performance at Asian Games

In a surprising turn of events at the ongoing Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, India's double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker concluded her competition without securing any medals. She participated in both the women's 25 m pistol and 10 m air pistol events, but unfortunately, did not leave a significant mark.

25m Pistol Event Overview

Manu, who previously won a gold medal in the women's 25 m pistol team event, was anticipated to be one of India's key contenders following her Olympic achievements. However, her campaign came to an end on Monday when India placed fifth in the women's 25 m pistol team final. The Indian trio, consisting of Esha Singh, Manu Bhaker, and Rahi Sarnobat, scored 1727-56x, finishing behind China (1743-68x), South Korea (1735-65x), and Chinese Taipei (1734-48x).

In the women's 25 m pistol individual final, Esha Singh represented India and finished eighth with a score of 580-22x, while the top eight shooters advanced to the finals.

Manu, on the other hand, did not qualify for the individual final, ending up 11th with a score of 579-18x, while Rahi placed 30th with a score of 568-16x.

10m Air Pistol Setback

Prior to this, Manu also missed the opportunity to compete in the 10 m air pistol final, finishing fifth in the qualification round with 181.1 points. Esha Singh ended in 16th place with 572 points, and Suruchi Singh was 26th with 568 points. The Indian team narrowly missed out on a team medal, finishing fourth.

India's Shooting Achievements

Despite Manu's setbacks, shooting has proven to be one of India's most successful disciplines this year, with a total of 11 medals, including one gold, six silvers, and four bronzes.

Manu's Form Before the Games

Leading up to the Asian Games, Manu was in excellent form, having secured a bronze medal at the ISSF World Cup 2026 in Hangzhou, where Esha Singh won gold in the women's 25 m pistol event. Additionally, at the ISSF World Cup 2026 in Munich, she earned a silver medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event alongside Samrat Rana. At the Asian Shooting Championships held in India, Manu also claimed an individual silver medal in the women's 25m pistol.