Shooter Manu Bhaker is being sought after by dozens of brands to sign contracts, after winning two 2024 Olympic medals.

From being relatively unknown, Bhaker suddenly became sought after in her home country after her performance at the Paris Olympics. 40 brands contacted Bhaker to invite her to be an ambassador, with her salary increasing six to seven times compared to before.

Manu Bhaker with the bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event. Photo: AFP

Bhaker won bronze in the 10m air pistol individual and mixed team events. She also finished fourth in the women’s 25m pistol individual event on August 3. The Indian shooter was Trinh Thu Vinh’s opponent in both individual events. Bhaker is the first Indian athlete in history to win two medals at a single Olympics.

“We received around 40 offers in just two to three days. We are now focusing on long-term deals and have signed a few contracts,” said Neerav Tomar, CEO of IOS Sports & Entertainment, Bhaker’s management company.

Before the 2024 Olympics, Bhaker was only an ambassador for one brand – Performax Activewear. Now, there are about six brands negotiating contract terms with her. Not only achieving high results, Bhaker’s beautiful demeanor when competing also helps her “score points”.

“Her brand value has increased five to six times. Earlier, we signed her for around Rs 2 million to Rs 2.5 million, now it has increased to around Rs 15 million. This is an exclusive contract, for a period of one year,” Tomar added.

IOS Sports & Entertainment is also taking legal action against brands that have used Bhaker’s images and videos for advertising without signing a partnership agreement.

Bhaker is just 22 years old and has shown remarkable progress under the coaching of legendary coach Jaspal Rana. She is considered the future of Indian shooting and the country’s sports authorities are considering investing to help Bhaker compete for gold at the 2028 Olympics.

Not only does Bhaker have the opportunity to make a lot of money after the Olympics, she also has the honor of being chosen as the flag bearer for the Indian sports delegation at the Olympic closing ceremony on August 11. This promises to increase her brand value even more.