Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker has urged Indian athletes competing at the 2026 Asian Games to put the organisational difficulties surrounding the event aside and focus on their performances. Her message came as the Aichi-Nagoya Games officially opened in Japan, amid concerns over accommodation, transportation and other logistical arrangements.
In a message shared by the Indian Olympic Association, Bhaker acknowledged that athletes may encounter problems but said the Asian Games represent a rare opportunity that should be enjoyed rather than overshadowed by complaints. She stressed that competitors had already put in significant preparation and should now concentrate their energy on performing to the best of their ability.
Bhaker also emphasised that winning a medal is not always within an athlete’s control, but giving their maximum effort is. Her comments came after several Indian athletes faced accommodation delays in Nagoya, while transportation and other arrangements also drew attention. Indian officials said alternative accommodation was arranged for athletes affected by the initial shortage.
The 24-year-old shooter is herself competing in three events: the women’s 10m air pistol, 25m pistol and mixed-team 10m air pistol. She was also selected as one of India’s opening-ceremony flag-bearers, alongside Tajinderpal Singh Toor.
Bhaker recalled making her Asian Games debut as a 16-year-old in 2018 and described her latest role as a proud milestone in her career.
Conversation
Be kind and stay on topic. Comments are moderated; abuse, spam and personal attacks are removed. Report a problem