NEW DELHI: For an athlete constantly under the spotlight, criticism often travels faster than applause. Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker knows this all too well. Criticism, in the words of Manu, was once something that could easily weigh her down.“Earlier, it would definitely have affected me, but right now I don’t think that it’s gonna matter much to me,” Bhaker told reporters during a virtual interaction ahead of the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship.

“I am very well aware of the criticism that might follow after a bad competition or the praise that might follow after a good competition. So that does not really affect me that much.”The 23-year-old sharpshooter now understands the significance of positivity, something that has been constant since her two bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics.“Ever since the Olympics, I’ve seen a lot of people coming to my games, cheering for me, and supporting me. And regardless of how my performance is… even if I finish on the podium or not, I have seen a very positive change in people, and I really appreciate that,” she admitted with a smile.With expectations mounting every time her name appears on the start list, Bhaker insists the extra attention no longer burdens her.“I’ve basically grown up in the sport. I was 14 when I first came in, and now I’ll be turning 24 soon,” she added.Manu is preparing herself for the upcoming challenge in the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship, set to be held at the Dr Karni Singh Range in Delhi from February 2 to 14.The event will see over 300 shooters from 17 countries, and for Bhaker, competing at home adds a sense of excitement rather than pressure.“I feel very fit, very healthy at the moment, and I’m really looking forward to the Asian Championship. Since the Asian Championship is going to be in Delhi itself, it’s basically home ground for us. My family and friends are also going to watch,” she added.