At the ISSF World Cup in Hangzhou, 21‑year‑old Esha Singh outshot Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker to claim the women's 25m pistol gold. India celebrated a double podium finish with Bhaker taking bronze.
Key Takeaways
- Esha Singh secured gold with 40 hits
- Manu Bhaker earned bronze with 28 hits
- India achieved a double‑podium sweep in women's pistol
Match Overview
In the final of the women's 25m pistol at the Hangzhou ISSF World Cup, Esha Singh held her nerve and posted a flawless 40‑hit series to clinch gold. Manu Bhaker fought back in a tense shoot‑off, finishing with 28 hits for bronze, completing India's impressive double‑podium performance.
Historical Background
Esha entered the season by smashing senior and junior world records in Munich with 43 hits, establishing herself as a rising star. The Hangzhou range holds special meaning for her, having won four medals at the 2023 Asian Games on the same venue, giving her a psychological edge.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this victory underscores India's depth in women's pistol shooting and provides a strategic advantage heading into the World Championships and Asian Games.
"Esha's composure under pressure is the decisive factor behind her gold medal," said a leading shooting coach.
Performance Comparison
| Shooter | Final Hits | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| Esha Singh | 40 | Gold |
| Manu Bhaker | 28 | Bronze |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does Esha Singh say about her next target after this win?
A: She aims to replicate her peak performance at the upcoming World Championships and Asian Games.
Q2: How does Manu Bhaker view her bronze medal?
A: She calls it a stepping stone that provides clarity on her preparation for the rest of the season.