Bindra receives Olympic Order for outstanding contribution to the Olympic Movement

Indian shooting icon Abhinav Bindra has been conferred the prestigious Olympic Order in recognition of his “outstanding contribution” to the Olympic movement. Bindra, who became India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist with his top finish in the 10m air rifle shooting at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, received the award here on Saturday from the International Olympic Committee during its 142nd session.

“When I was a little boy, it was those Olympic rings that gave my life meaning,” Bindra said.

“And it has been a privilege to be able to pursue my Olympic dream for over two decades. After my sporting career, it was a great passion of mine to try to give something back to the Olympic movement. It has been a privilege and an honour,” he added.

The 41-year-old, who is also vice-chairman of the IOC Athletes’ Commission, said the award would encourage him to continue working harder and contributing to the Olympic Movement.

Established in 1975, the Olympic Order is the highest honour of the Olympic Movement. It is awarded to individuals for their outstanding contribution to the Olympic Movement.

Bindra has competed in the Summer Olympics five times since Sydney 2000. He first came to attention in Athens 2004 when he made it to the final of the men’s 10m air rifle shooting. In Beijing 2008, he defeated defending champion Zhu Qinan of China to win the gold medal. He also made it to the final in Rio 2016, but finished fourth.

Bindra has been part of the IOC Athletes’ Commission since 2018.