13 august 2024 : On Monday, social media was abuzz following the emergence of two videos from the Paris Olympics 2024, which fueled speculation regarding a potential relationship between Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker. The first video captured the two medalists engaged in conversation during an event hosted by the Indian contingent in Paris, while the second featured Bhaker’s mother speaking with Neeraj. Both clips quickly gained traction online. In response to the marriage rumors surrounding the two Olympic stars, Ram Kishan Bhaker, Manu’s father, clarified the situation, and subsequently, Manu’s mother, Sumedha, shared insights about her discussion with Neeraj.
In an interview with PTI after the Indian contingent’s return home following the Paris Games’ spectacular closing ceremony on Sunday, Sumedha expressed her delight in meeting Neeraj, whom she regards as a son, and conveyed her hopes that all medalists, including her daughter, would continue to bring honor to the nation.
“I am pleased for her (Manu Bhaker) and for all the athletes. During my visit to Paris, I had the opportunity to meet the hockey team, Aman Sehrawat, and Neeraj Chopra… I felt immense joy for each of them. My wish is for these athletes to keep winning medals, bringing happiness to all the mothers of this nation,” Sumedha remarked.
Earlier, in a conversation with Dainik Bhaskar, Manu’s father emphasized that the young shooter is not yet considering marriage, effectively dispelling the rumors of a romantic link with Neeraj. “Manu is still very young. She is not of marriageable age and is not contemplating it at this moment,” he stated.
Further commenting on the video featuring Sumedha and Neeraj, he added, “Manu’s mother regards Neeraj as her own son.”
Manu made history at the Paris Olympics last week by securing a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol event and in the 10m air pistol mixed team event alongside Sarabjot Singh. She not only became the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal but also ended the country’s 12-year wait for a shooting medal at the Games. With her second medal in Paris, the 22-year-old established herself as a pioneering athlete.
