Vijender Singh, Saina Nehwal

India’s young achievers at the Olympics!

The Olympic Games have long stood as the ultimate stage for sporting achievement, where athletes from around the world vie for glory and national pride. For India, a nation with over 1.3 billion people, Olympic success has been a gradual journey marked by increasing ambition. Recently, a notable trend has emerged: younger Indian athletes are not only participating but also securing medals at the Olympics. In this article, we’ll highlight the five youngest Indian Olympic medalists. Their achievements represent both personal triumphs and significant milestones in India’s sports evolution. From badminton to boxing, tennis to athletics, these young stars have made a lasting impact on Indian sports history.

Leander Paes (23 years, 1 month, 17 days)

Leander Paes won a bronze medal in tennis at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, becoming the first Indian to secure an individual Olympic medal in the sport. Paes hails from a family of athletes; his father was a member of the Indian hockey team that won bronze at the 1972 Olympics. Paes’s achievement not only elevated the popularity of tennis in India but also demonstrated that Indian players could excel at the highest level of international competition.

Leander Peas (Left) Being Inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame! 

Vijender Singh (22 years, 9 months, 24 days)

Vijender Singh won a bronze medal in boxing at the 2008 Olympics, marking India’s first Olympic medal in the sport. His victory was a landmark moment, proving that Indian boxers could achieve success on the global stage. Following his Olympic success, Singh continued to excel, earning more medals at various international competitions. His achievements have significantly boosted the profile of boxing in India and inspired many young athletes to pursue the sport. Singh’s legacy extends beyond his medals, as he has played a crucial role in encouraging a new generation of Indian boxers.

Manu Bhaker (22 years, 5 months, 10 days)

Manu Bhaker won a bronze medal in the women's 10 metre air pistol event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, becoming the first Indian woman shooter to achieve an Olympic medal. Bhaker made her Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, where she showed her potential. Prior to her Olympic success, she had already established herself as a top competitor by winning gold medals at ISSF World Cups and World Championships. Her historic achievement in Paris 2024 not only underlines her exceptional skill but also marks a significant milestone for Indian shooting in the international arena. To add to this list Bhaker has already won a Bronze in this years Paris Olympics aswell!

Saina Nehwal (22 years, 4 months, 18 days)

Saina Nehwal won a bronze medal in badminton at the 2012 London Olympics, becoming the first Indian badminton player to secure an Olympic medal. Nehwal has enjoyed a distinguished career, amassing numerous international titles. Her historic Olympic achievement played a significant role in popularising badminton in India, inspiring a new generation of players. Nehwal's success not only elevated the sport’s profile but also set a benchmark for future Indian badminton players, motivating them to pursue Olympic glory and excel on the global stage. Her medal marked a pivotal moment in Indian sports history.

P.V. Sindhu (21 years, 1 month, 14 days)

P.V. Sindhu is the youngest Indian to win an Olympic medal, securing a silver in badminton at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Her achievement was notable as she surpassed Saina Nehwal’s bronze medal from the previous Games. Sindhu further cemented her status by winning a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, making her the only Indian woman to earn two individual Olympic medals. Her remarkable performances not only highlighted her exceptional talent but also set new standards for Indian athletes, inspiring many and advancing the profile of badminton in India.

In the Paris Olympics, India is betting on many young athletes to bring a medal for India. So, maybe these five athletes will find company!