Indian sportswomen are increasingly making waves in various international sports, emerging as rising stars breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks. These young athletes bring a mix of talent, determination, and grit to their disciplines, whether it’s badminton, boxing, athletics, wrestling, or tennis. They are achieving national success, competing and excelling on the global stage, and inspiring the next generation of female athletes in India.
Their journey from grassroots to international competition is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and passion for sports. These rising stars have gone out to make their families and coaches proud and inspire millions of young girls to pursue their dreams in sports.
Here are 10 Indian sportswomen who have made the nation proud in 2024 with their exceptional performances:
1. PV Sindhu (Badminton)
- Achievements in 2024: PV Sindhu continued her dominant career by clinching multiple international titles, including victories in prestigious tournaments such as the All-England Open and the Badminton World Championships. She reached the finals in several major events and consistently performed well in the BWF World Tour. With a focus on maintaining her physical fitness and tactical acumen, Sindhu remained a top contender in the global badminton scene, reinforcing her status as one of the sport’s greatest players.
- Impact: Her success has contributed to her legacy and significantly raised the profile of Indian badminton on the global stage, inspiring a new generation of players.
2. Mary Kom (Boxing)
- Achievements in 2024: At the age of 41, Mary Kom continued to compete at the highest levels of boxing. She participated in major international events like the Asian Boxing Championships and the World Championships. She showcased her experience and skill by winning medals in these competitions, including a silver medal at the Asian Boxing Championships. Mary Kom also played a key role as a mentor to younger boxers, passing on her wealth of knowledge and experience to the next generation.
- Impact: Mary Kom remains an iconic figure in Indian boxing, and her legacy continues to inspire a new wave of female boxers in the country.
3. Hima Das (Athletics)
- Achievements in 2024: Hima Das maintained her form by securing podium finishes in multiple international and domestic meets. She won medals in 200m and 400m sprints at events such as the South Asian Games and Asian Grand Prix. Hima also set new national records in both events, showcasing her consistency and speed. Her success in international competitions has strengthened her position as one of India’s leading sprinters and helped elevate the sport’s profile in the country.
- Impact: Hima Das is an inspiration for aspiring athletes in India, especially for young girls who dream of competing internationally.
4. Mirabai Chanu (Weightlifting)
- Achievements in 2024: Mirabai Chanu continued her successful career by securing gold medals in several international weightlifting championships, including the Commonwealth Games and the World Weightlifting Championships. She also set new records in her weight category, 49 kg, with a total lift of over 200 kg. Chanu’s dedication and focus on training paid off, as she solidified her reputation as one of the best weightlifters in the world.
- Impact: Mirabai Chanu’s success has been a major boost for Indian weightlifting, inspiring a new wave of young lifters in the country.
5. Vinesh Phogat (Wrestling)
- Achievements in 2024: Vinesh Phogat continued her dominance in international wrestling by clinching gold medals at the Commonwealth Games, World Wrestling Championships, and several other prestigious tournaments. She remained undefeated throughout the year, demonstrating her technical skill, strength, and strategy. Vinesh Phogat is a coach and mentor for younger wrestlers, sharing her expertise and experience to help them excel.
- Impact: Vinesh’s achievements have further established her as a leading figure in Indian wrestling, inspiring many young girls to take up the sport.
6. Ankita Raina (Tennis)
- Achievements in 2024: Ankita Raina continued to be India’s top female tennis player, making significant strides in the international circuit. She reached the finals of the WTA 250 series and had successful runs in the Grand Slam qualifiers. Ankita also helped India advance in the Billie Jean King Cup and played a crucial role in raising the profile of Indian tennis globally. Her consistent performances have helped her climb up the WTA rankings.
- Impact: Ankita Raina’s dedication and hard work have made her a trailblazer for Indian tennis, motivating young girls to pursue the sport professionally.
7. Dutee Chand (Athletics)
- Achievements in 2024: Dutee Chand has excelled in sprint events, setting new national records and securing podium finishes in both domestic and international meets. She won gold in the 100m and 200m events at the National Open Athletics Championships and represented India in various international competitions, including the Asian Athletics Championships. Dutee Chand’s success challenges stereotypes and serves as an example of perseverance in sports.
- Impact: Dutee Chand remains a pioneering figure for LGBTQ+ athletes in sports and an inspiration for many aspiring athletes in India.
8. Sakshi Malik (Wrestling)
- Achievements in 2024: Sakshi Malik remained a key wrestler for India, competing in several international meets throughout the year. She secured top positions and clinched bronze medals at major tournaments such as the World Wrestling Championships and the Asian Wrestling Championships. Sakshi Malik also participated in the Commonwealth Games, where she won a silver medal, showcasing her skill and experience on the mat.
- Impact: Sakshi Malik continues to be an inspiration for young girls who aspire to compete in wrestling, embodying determination and resilience.
9. Aditi Ashok (Golf)
- Achievements in 2024: Aditi Ashok continued to represent India with distinction in international golf tournaments. She secured top-10 finishes in several events on the LPGA Tour and became the first Indian woman to compete in the Olympics twice. Aditi Ashok’s consistent performances and a strong showing in major tournaments have further elevated her status as one of India’s top golfers.
- Impact: Aditi’s success serves as a role model for young girls aiming to break into golf professionally in India.
10. Sneha Singh (Cricket)
- Achievements in 2024: Emerging as a rising talent, Sneha Singh showcased her skills in domestic cricket leagues and international T20 competitions. She made significant contributions with both bat and ball, scoring important runs and taking key wickets for her team. Sneha’s performances caught the attention of selectors, and she was called up to the Indian women’s national team for key series.
- Impact: Sneha Singh is seen as a future star for Indian women’s cricket, with the potential to become a key player for the national team.
These athletes have achieved success in their respective sports and served as role models for aspiring athletes in India, encouraging them to dream big and strive for excellence.