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Ayonika Paul clinched the bronze medal with a score of 185.3 in the 10m rifle event of the ISSF Word Cup in Maribor, Slovenia.
The 21-year-old stood third in the qualifying round, shooting a score of 417.3. She went on to score an impressive 185.3 in the final to win the bronze medal, which is her maiden international medal as a senior shooter.
“This is my first ever World Cup medal and I am really happy. I must thank National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) for their support. I also want to specially thank Olympic Gold Quest for their wonderful support to me. They have sent me quite a few times to Austria for training stints under world renowned coach Thomas Farnik which has really improved my technique,” she said.
“I also work with Olympic Gold Quest sports psychologist Vaibhav Agashe and sports medicine specialist Dr Nikhil Latey. They have both made a big difference to my confidence and fitness,” she added.
The 2012 Olympic champion, China’s Yi Siling won the gold with a score of 209.6 points and her compatriot Wu Liuxi clinched the silver with 207.6 points.
Ayonika has been in great form this season, having stood 6th in the World Cup in USA earlier this year. She has been duly rewarded for her consistency with a medal and an entry into the top 10 in the world rankings.
She is currently ranked 9th in the world.
