Veteran Indian weightlifter and Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu finished third in Group B of the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand. The 29-year-old is coming after a six-month-long hip injury lay-off since last competing in the Asian Games in September.
With the Paris Olympics qualification on the line, Chanu lifted a remarkable 184 kg with an 81 kg snatch and a 103 kg clean and jerk. With this feat, the legendary lifter from Manipur has almost sealed her berth in the upcoming summer games in the capital of France, confirmation of which will be declared on April 28, 2024.
Mirabai Chanu finishes 3rd IWF World Cup 2024 in Phuket
Despite not being 100% match-fit ahead of this tournament, Chanu pulled off five exemplary lifts out of six she attempted at the event. The first spot was clinched by 20-year-old Philippines lifter Rosegie Ramos, who secured the best score of 190kg (87kg snatch + 103 kg clean and jerk) followed by Mexico’s Lopez Ferrer who lifted a total of 187 kg (87 kg snatch + 100 kg clean and jerk).
Mirabai Chanu suffered hip injury at Asian Games 2023
Mirabai Chanu, one of the most favourable prospects for an Olympic podium finish alongside Bindyarani Devi, suffered a heart-breaking injury last year in September while competing in the Asian Games in Hangzhou.
During her attempt to lift 117 kg clean and jerk in the women’s 49 kg category, she suffered a dramatic collapse on her back which resulted in a serious hip injury to the two-time Commonwealth Games champion. She necessitated an urgent aid to carry her out of the event.