Mirabai Chanu, the Tokyo Olympics silver-medallist, has taken a significant stride towards qualifying for the 2024 Paris Games by securing the third position in the women’s 49kg Group B event at the IWF World Cup. Despite her return from a six-month injury hiatus, Chanu showcased her strength by lifting a total of 184 kg (81kg+103kg) at the tournament, a crucial qualifying event for the Paris Olympics.
Chanu has now fulfilled the criteria for Paris Olympics qualification, having participated in two mandatory events and three additional qualifiers. Currently ranked second in the women’s 49kg Olympic Qualification Ranking (OQR), her official qualification awaits confirmation post-World Cup updates to the OQR. The top 10 lifters in each weight category will secure spots at the Paris Olympics.
Despite grappling with a hip tendonitis injury sustained during the Asian Games in September, Chanu demonstrated resilience by successfully completing five clean lifts. Though her lifts fell short of her personal best, the 29-year-old’s progress suggests room for improvement leading up to the Games.
Chanu, boasting personal bests of 88 kg in snatch and a then-world record of 119 kg in clean and jerk set at the 2021 Asian Championships, has until July to peak for the Paris Games. Her participation will mark her third Olympic appearance, representing India as the sole weightlifter.
