Samrat Rana Makes History: India’s First 10m Pistol Champion

By Harshit - Nov 11, 2025 03:42 PM
Last updated on Nov 11, 2025 03:52 PM

Emotions ran high as Samrat Rana etched his name into Indian sporting history by becoming the first Indian shooter to clinch a gold medal in an Olympic discipline at the ISSF World Championships. The 20-year-old sensation from Karnal delivered a flawless display in the men’s 10m air pistol final, scoring 243.7 in a thrilling contest that saw him narrowly edge past China’s Hu Kai. His victory not only marks a personal milestone but also signals a new era of dominance for Indian shooting on the world stage.

Moments after securing the top spot, a visibly emotional Rana said, “I still can’t believe it.” His disbelief mirrored the nation’s collective pride as India celebrated its first world champion in this category. The young athlete’s grit, calm composure, and technical precision in the high-pressure final have earned him widespread admiration from fans, coaches, and fellow shooters. With every shot fired in Cairo, Rana showcased nerves of steel and an unwavering focus that belied his age.

Trained under the watchful eyes of his father since 2018, Rana’s journey is a testament to perseverance, family support, and relentless self-belief. His performance in Cairo not only brought him gold but also inspired a generation of young shooters across the country to dream big. The golden moment came as the culmination of years of hard work, discipline, and quiet determination.

Samrat Rana’s Road to Glory

Samrat Rana’s rise to international fame has been nothing short of meteoric. Starting his shooting career as a teenager, Rana quickly made a name for himself in the junior circuit, securing multiple medals at national and international levels. Cairo, in particular, has proven to be a lucky venue for him. “I think it’s a happy hunting ground for me,” Rana said with a smile, recalling his two medals at the 2022 Junior World Championships held at the same venue.

His latest triumph was no easy feat. In a final that kept spectators on edge, the lead oscillated between Rana, China’s Hu Kai, and fellow Indian shooter Varun Tomar. With the competition down to the wire, Rana maintained composure and delivered a near-perfect final shot to claim gold by a slim margin of 0.4 points. The victory, achieved through focus and precision, demonstrated not just technical mastery but exceptional mental resilience.

Behind the gold medal is a story of unyielding dedication. Rana’s father, who doubles as his coach, has been instrumental in shaping his son’s career. Together, they have built a foundation rooted in discipline, consistent training, and a shared passion for shooting. “My father taught me that pressure is a privilege,” Rana once said, a philosophy that was evident in his composed demeanor during the nail-biting final.

Historic Double for India in 10m Air Pistol

Adding to India’s joy, Varun Tomar, another promising shooter, clinched the bronze medal with a score of 221.7. Tomar, a 21-year-old from Baghpat and cousin of Olympic ace Saurabh Chaudhary, displayed tremendous skill and maturity throughout the event. The duo’s combined brilliance marked the first time two Indian shooters shared the podium in the same event at the World Championships — a proud milestone for the nation’s shooting fraternity.

Earlier in the day, Rana had topped the qualification round with an impressive score of 586, narrowly edging out Tomar, who matched his total but had fewer inner 10s. Alongside Shravan Kumar, the trio also secured the team gold for India with a combined score of 1754, underlining India’s growing supremacy in pistol shooting. Their collective success demonstrated the depth of talent and the strength of India’s shooting program.

This historic performance serves as a reminder of India’s steady progress in Olympic disciplines. Over the past decade, Indian shooters have consistently made their presence felt at global events, but Rana’s gold medal in an Olympic category cements the nation’s place among the sport’s elite. The synchronized effort of the athletes, coaches, and support staff has propelled Indian shooting to new heights.

Rana’s Emotional Reaction and Reflections

Moments after the win, Samrat Rana was visibly overwhelmed. “I still can’t believe it,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “I was just trying to focus on my technique in every shot towards the end.” His humility and composure stood out as he reflected on the magnitude of his achievement. Rana’s journey is a blend of hard work, patience, and quiet confidence, traits that define champions at the highest level.

For Rana, the win was also redemption. Earlier this year, he narrowly missed qualifying for the ISSF World Cup final in Ningbo, a setback that could have shaken many. Instead, it fueled his determination. “I just kept reminding myself to stay calm and trust my process,” he shared. His words embody the mindset of a true athlete — one who learns, adapts, and grows stronger from every challenge.

In the aftermath of his triumph, Rana’s story has resonated across India. From fellow athletes to political leaders and sports enthusiasts, tributes poured in celebrating his monumental victory. Beyond the gold medal, it’s his humility and perseverance that have struck a chord with millions.

The Making of a Champion

Samrat Rana’s success is not an overnight phenomenon. It’s the result of countless hours of practice, early mornings, and unwavering focus. Born and raised in Karnal, Haryana, Rana was introduced to shooting by his father, who recognized his talent at a young age. Under his guidance, Rana developed not only technical skills but also the mental toughness essential for competitive shooting.

He honed his craft through rigorous training sessions, often spending long hours perfecting his aim and timing. His methodical approach and keen attention to detail have been central to his rise. Over the years, Rana has participated in numerous competitions, gaining invaluable experience and learning to handle pressure with grace.

Beyond his individual success, Rana’s story is a source of inspiration for the next generation of Indian athletes. His journey underscores the importance of resilience, mentorship, and belief in one’s abilities. With his gold medal, Rana has shown that excellence is achieved not through shortcuts but through consistent effort and passion.

India’s Growing Power in Shooting Sports

India’s performance at the ISSF World Championships highlights the nation’s growing stature in the global shooting arena. The emergence of young champions like Samrat Rana and Varun Tomar reflects the success of India’s grassroots programs and the increasing focus on nurturing talent from an early age. The country’s shooters are now serious contenders across multiple disciplines, a testament to years of investment and planning by sports authorities.

Rana’s victory serves as both a symbol of achievement and a reminder of the work still ahead. The challenge now is to build on this momentum and sustain the progress leading up to future Olympic Games. With infrastructure improving and the next generation of shooters emerging, India’s golden era in shooting seems well within reach.

The unity, determination, and discipline displayed by Indian shooters at Cairo have captured the imagination of sports fans worldwide. Their achievements represent more than medals — they symbolize the growing confidence of a nation determined to leave a lasting mark on the global stage.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Indian Shooting

Samrat Rana’s historic gold medal in the men’s 10m air pistol event is more than just a victory; it is a statement of India’s arrival as a powerhouse in the sport. His composure, focus, and humility have set a benchmark for aspiring athletes. With Varun Tomar’s bronze adding to the glory, India’s performance at the championship stands as a defining moment for the country’s sporting history.

As the nation celebrates this incredible achievement, Samrat Rana’s words echo the spirit of true champions — disbelief mixed with gratitude, pride intertwined with humility. His journey reminds us that dreams, when combined with hard work and faith, can indeed turn into golden realities. The young shooter from Karnal has not only brought home a medal but also inspired millions to aim higher, believe stronger, and never give up.

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