Deepika Kumari, the former World No. 1 who retired from competition in December 2022 to become a mother, proved her resilience by winning the selection trials for the upcoming World Cups and the prestigious Olympics in Paris.
Deepika’s outstanding performance in the trials highlights her unmatched talent and will to succeed on the global stage once more, even if she was not there for the previous season. Her outstanding performance not only emphasizes her incredible recovery but also raises hopes for her further pursuits, indicating a bright future in the field of archery.
The three-time Olympian triumphantly made her comeback to the Baghdad Asia Cup in February, showcasing her abilities with two gold medals. She cemented her place in the four-person team alongside veterans Bhajan Kaur and Ankita Bhakat as well as up-and-coming sensation Komalika Bari.
Deepika – Tenacity
Notably, Simranjeet Kaur was replaced in the squad by Bari, a previous youth world champion. Having not played for twenty months, Deepika showed tenacity in a thrilling four-setter against Simranjeet, winning the gold at the renowned Asia Cup event in Baghdad. The captivating tale of her incredible recovery suggests that the Indian archery contingent is in for a wild ride.
India is almost guaranteed a quota in the women’s division, but there is still work to be done before the Olympics in Paris. The World Cup’s third stage, which takes place in Antalya from June 18 to June 23, is the last opportunity to qualify for the Games in July and August.
As the men’s recurve section leader and the only Indian to secure an Olympic quota to Paris, Dhiraj Bommadevara stands out as a ray of hope. Reputable colleagues Tarundeep Rai, Pravin Jadhav, and Mrinal Chauhan accompany him, making up a formidable team as they aim for Olympic success.
Sanjeev Singh; “This squad is provisional (for the Olympics), and we may make one or two alterations based on their performance in the first two stages of the World Cup,” an article from sportstar.com shared.
The excitement grows as India attempts to qualify as a team for the Olympics in Paris. The World Cup’s first stage takes place in Shanghai from April 21 to April 28. The second stage is hosted in Yecheon, South Korea, from May 21 to May 26. Three competitors are prepared for these high-stakes competitions, which are watched closely as Olympic qualification is at risk.
Cover Photo: IG