Abhinav Bindra has been awarded with the Olympic Order, the highest honor that the International Olympics Committee can bestow upon an athlete. The 41-year-old was India’s first individual gold medal winner at the 2008 Beijing Games.
He finished first in the men’s 10m air rifle category the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. And in doing so, he etched his name in history, winning in his third attempt at the Olympics after falling short in 2004.
Abhinav Bindra bestowed with Olympic Order ahead of Paris Olympics
Legend Abhinav Bindra! 🥇🐐🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/IAHvsNbzks
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The veteran was also seen in the opening ceremony of the ongoing Paris Olympics, carrying the torch in the city for the 33rd edition of the Summer Olympics.
Bindra’s achievements have paved the way for the next generation of Indian athletes, with sports slowly developing further in the country. With Neeraj Chopra also delivering gold in javelin, perhaps India’s mentality and investment surrounding non-cricket sports will slowly change more drastically.
The shooter was asked about his advice to young athletes ahead of the ongoing edition of the Olympics. And here is what he had to say:
“Young generation is more confident,” was Bindra’s opening remark. “Sports has developed over the last decade and more people are interested in investing in sports.”
Bindra further deliberated on energy management during competition saying, it is a vital part of preparation for the Olympic Games. “Everyone is nervous. But be smart to handle pressure on the given day,” was his advice to young athletes.
