Sarabjot Singh is back in the spotlight after winning a bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event with Manu Bhaker. His recent choice to decline a government job offer has earned him widespread admiration from sports fans, who praise his commitment to his sport.
Unlike many athletes who pursue government positions as a career fallback, Sarabjot has demonstrated his dedication by rejecting the opportunity to focus solely on improving his shooting.
The Haryana government had offered Sarabjot a deputy director role in the sports department, but he decided to turn it down to concentrate on his sport and achieve further excellence. Despite his family’s encouragement to accept the position for job security, Sarabjot remains resolute in his decision to prioritize his athletic career.
“I appreciate the job offer, but I need to focus on my shooting right now. Although my family suggests taking the job, my commitment to shooting is a priority, and I’m not willing to deviate from my decisions,” he told ANI.
Who Is Sarabjot Singh?
Sarabjot Singh, one of India’s premier shooters, comes from a farming family in Ambala. He is the son of Jatinder Singh, a farmer, and Hardeep Kaur, a homemaker. Sarabjot completed his education at DAV College in Chandigarh and honed his skills under the guidance of coach Abhishek Rana.
At just 22, Sarabjot stands out for his maturity and grounded demeanor, despite his notable success in the 10m air pistol category. His recent accomplishments and self-assurance led the Indian sports community to believe he was a strong contender for an Olympic medal, and he delivered on that expectation.
Sarabjot Singh Career Growth
Sarabjot’s interest in shooting began during his youth when he saw some children using air guns at a local range during a summer camp. Initially, he aspired to be a footballer, but shooting also captured his interest.
In 2014, Sarabjot expressed his desire to pursue shooting to his father, Jatinder Singh. Despite understanding his son’s passion, Jatinder was concerned about the cost of the sport, given their financial situation as farmers. Nevertheless, Sarabjot’s persistence led his parents to support his ambition.
Sarabjot Singh Training and Mentorship
Throughout his educational journey, Sarabjot Singh benefited from comprehensive training and guidance under coach Abhishek Rana at the AR Shooting Academy in Ambala Cantt.
This academy, situated within the Central Phoenix Club, offered the essential facilities and mentorship for Sarabjot to thrive in shooting.
Coach Rana’s expertise played a crucial role in Sarabjot’s growth as a shooter, contributing to his success in securing numerous national and international medals.
The blend of academic support and expert coaching allowed Sarabjot to effectively balance his educational and athletic pursuits.
Sarabjot Singh's Medal Achievements
Sarabjot Singh has firmly established himself as an Olympic medalist, with a career marked by significant accomplishments. His impressive tally includes 7 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze medals, totaling 12 medals across various prestigious events, showcasing his contributions to Indian shooting.
His medal wins span several key events:
- Junior World Cup, Germany 2019: Silver in Individual 10m Air Pistol Men, Silver in Mixed Team 10m Air Pistol, and Gold in Team 10m Air Pistol.
- World Championship, Suhl 2019: Gold in Individual Junior 10m Air Pistol.
- Asian Championship, Doha 2019: Gold in Mixed Team 10m Air Pistol and Bronze in Men’s Team 10m Air Pistol.
- Asian Games, Hangzhou 2022: Gold in Team 10m Air Pistol and Silver in Mixed Team 10m Air Pistol.
- World Cup, Bhopal 2023: Gold in Individual 10m Air Pistol Men.
- World Cup, Baku 2023: Gold in Mixed Team 10m Air Pistol.
- Asian Championship, Changwon 2023: Gold in 10m Air Pistol.
- Olympic Games, Paris 2024: Bronze in Mixed Team 10m Air Pistol.
Sarabjot Singh Achievements and Recognition
Sarabjot Singh’s educational background and sporting accomplishments have brought him considerable recognition and praise.
He has garnered numerous medals at the ISSF World Cup, Asian Championships, and various other esteemed competitions. His educational institutions have also acknowledged his contributions to the field of sports.
Sarabjot first gained recognition with a gold medal at the 2019 Junior World Championship. He was also part of the Indian shooting team that won gold at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, and he secured an individual bronze at the 2023 Asian Championships.
Facing pressure to deliver medals after India’s shooting team failed to win any at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Sarabjot was highlighted as one of the top contenders for the Paris Games
Sarabjot’s notable achievement at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he secured a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event alongside Manu Bhaker, reflects his dedication and hard work. His journey is a source of inspiration for young athletes aiming to excel in both academics and sports.