Mirabai Chanu, India’s weightlifting queen, is poised for a triumphant return to the competitive circuit. After a six-month hiatus due to a hip tendonitis injury, she sets her sights on the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand, a crucial stepping stone towards securing her berth at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Mirabai Chanu Gears Up for Paris Olympics
Chanu’s journey to Paris hasn’t been without hurdles. The silver medalist from the Tokyo Olympics battled through the pain barrier to compete at the 2023 Asian Games. However, her attempt at a clean and jerk lift ended in a heart-wrenching fall, leading to the injury that forced her to take a break.
Despite the setback, the Manipuri lifter’s fighting spirit remains undimmed. Ranked second in the women’s 49kg Olympic Qualification Ranking, she has already fulfilled most of the qualifying criteria for Paris. The upcoming World Cup serves as a formality, a chance to officially confirm her place among the contenders on the grandest stage.
However, this return won’t be a full-fledged assault on the podium. With recovery still a priority, Chanu will adopt a strategic approach. Her entry weight for the World Cup is significantly lower than her personal best, a clear indication that immediate medal contention isn’t the goal. Coach Vijay Sharma emphasizes a cautious plan: “She is coming back from an injury, we will take it slow. She has already qualified so no point stretching her here. We want her to peak at the right time.”
This measured approach highlights the long-term vision for Chanu. The World Cup serves as a platform to test her fitness after the injury layoff and ease her back into the competitive rhythm. The true target remains the Paris Olympics, where she’ll aim to showcase her full potential and challenge for the gold medal.
A Journey to Remember
Chanu’s story is one of resilience and unwavering determination. She continues to battle not just physical injuries but also a persistent back issue that has affected her snatch attempts. Her relentless pursuit of the elusive 90kg snatch lift, a barrier she’s been trying to break since 2020, exemplifies her unwavering commitment to excellence.
The upcoming World Cup will be a significant milestone in Chanu’s quest for Parisian glory. It will be a chance to witness her fighting spirit on display as she navigates the path back to peak performance. With focus, determination, and the unwavering support of her team, Mirabai Chanu is well on her way to conquer Paris and etch her name deeper into the annals of Indian sporting history.
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