Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has virtually secured her spot for the 2024 Paris Olympics after finishing third in the women's 49kg Group B event of the IWF World Cup.
Returning from a six-month injury layoff, Chanu lifted a total of 184kg (81kg+103kg) at the tournament, which serves as the final and mandatory qualifier for the Paris Olympics.
Reflecting on her performance, Chanu expressed satisfaction, stating, "It feels incredible to come back after an injury. Almost every lift I made today felt clean, clear, and powerful, and I'm leaving this competition feeling strong and confident." She also acknowledged the challenging rehabilitation process, crediting the support she received during her recovery journey.
With her participation in two compulsory events and three other qualifiers, Chanu has fulfilled the criteria for the Paris Olympics.
Currently ranked second in the women's 49kg Olympic Qualification Ranking (OQR), she is closely behind China's Jian HuiHua. The qualification period for weightlifting concludes on April 28, following which the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) will inform the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) with athletes ranked in the top 10.
The top 10 lifters from each weight class will secure qualification for the Paris Olympics.
Chanu emphasized her focus on making an impact at the Paris Olympics, stating, "The goal was to secure my spot for the Paris Olympics, and now that I am almost through, all my attention is on making a mark at the Paris Olympics."
Chief coach Vijay Sharma emphasized the importance of Chanu's return to competition, stating, "Today's event was to assess how Mira's body is progressing given she is returning after six months of injury and rehabilitation. And more importantly to get her confidence back."