Indian shooters Suruchi Singh (18) and Saurabh Chaudhary (22) made headlines at the 2025 ISSF World Cup in Lima, Peru, clinching gold in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event with a dramatic 17-9 win over China.
Earlier, Suruchi had secured individual gold (243.6) by edging out compatriot Manu Bhaker (242.3), while Saurabh added a bronze in the men’s singles (219.1). Their victories, built on years of perseverance and support, highlight the growing strength of India’s shooting contingent and the inspiring journeys behind these champions.
A Comeback Scripted in Nerve and Precision
The mixed team final saw India trailing 8-4 before coach Samaresh Jung’s timely timeout changed the momentum. Suruchi’s composed 10.6 and Saurabh’s perfect 10.9 sparked a nine-point streak, clinching gold as China faltered under pressure.
“We focused on our breathing patterns during the break,” Suruchi told ISSF Media. Saurabh credited their bronze in Argentina as a turning point: “That loss taught us to handle mid-game collapses.” Manu Bhaker and Ravinder Singh, India’s other team, finished just off the podium in fourth place.
Suruchi & Saurabh: From Humble Beginnings to World Stage
Suruchi Singh’s journey began in Haryana’s Jhajjar district, inspired by her father Inder Singh—a retired Army havildar—who first hoped she’d follow family tradition into wrestling, inspired by cousin and Deaflympics gold medallist Virender Singh (“Goonga Pehalwan”).
After a wrestling injury, Suruchi switched to shooting at age 13, training at the Guru Dronacharya Shooting Academy in Bhiwani under coach Suresh Singh. Despite financial hardships—her father took loans and even trained her himself during the pandemic—Suruchi’s dedication saw her sweep national titles and now, back-to-back World Cup golds.
Saurabh Chaudhary, hailing from Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for his calm under pressure and has been a consistent medalist for India since his teenage years, including an Asian Games gold and multiple World Cup podiums.
Coaches’ Corner: Sacrifice, Support, and Strategy
Suruchi’s father, Inder Singh, took voluntary retirement from the Army to guide her, often travelling 50km by train to Bhiwani for her training. During the COVID-19 lockdown, Kargil war veteran Anil Jakhar’s shooting academy in their village allowed Suruchi to continue practising.
Both Inder and coach Suresh Singh highlight her work ethic and willingness to learn. “Her technique and methods are top notch and she’s operating with loads of confidence at the moment,” Suresh said, crediting her rise to her attention to detail and resilience.
Saurabh’s comeback is attributed to technical adjustments and a renewed focus on mental strength, with national coach Om Prakash praising his adaptability in Lima’s challenging conditions.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Suruchi and Saurabh’s stories remind us that behind every medal is a tapestry of sacrifice, family support, and community spirit. Their journeys—from wrestling mats and backyard ranges to world podiums—showcase the transformative power of opportunity and perseverance.
As India’s shooting stars rise, how can we ensure that young talents from every corner of the country receive the support and recognition they deserve? Join the conversation and share your ideas for building a more inclusive and nurturing sports ecosystem.
