Smriti Mandhana, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Neeraj Chopra, Manu Bhaker and Harmanpreet Singh Shine at Indian Sports Honours 2024

The fifth edition of the Indian Sports Honours celebrated the achievements of India’s top athletes across various disciplines. This prestigious event, conceptualized by Cornerstone Sport, is a platform to honor the incredible performances of Indian athletes at global events such as the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and beyond.

The 2024 edition highlighted achievements that inspired millions, with luminaries like Smriti Mandhana, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Neeraj Chopra, Manu Bhaker, and Harmanpreet Singh among the headline winners.

Manu Bhaker: Sportswoman of the Year (Individual Sports)

Teen shooting sensation Manu Bhaker clinched the Sportswoman of the Year in Individual Sports award for her stellar performances in 2024. Bhaker made waves by securing two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics in the 10m air pistol (individual and mixed team events). Her precision and consistency have elevated her status as one of India’s finest shooters.

Bhaker, previously recognized as the "Emerging Sportswoman of the Year" in 2019, expressed gratitude upon receiving the award:

“This honor is not just for me but for everyone who stood by me—my family, coaches, and supporters."

Neeraj Chopra: Sportsman of the Year (Individual Sports)

India’s javelin maestro, Neeraj Chopra, was awarded the Sportsman of the Year in Individual Sports for the second consecutive year. His achievements this year include silver medals at the Paris Olympics and the Diamond League in Brussels. Chopra, a global ambassador for Indian athletics, continues to inspire the next generation of sports enthusiasts.

Acknowledging the honor, Chopra said:

“This award is a testament to my team and all the hard work that has gone into my journey. I’m grateful to the jury and extend congratulations to all my fellow winners.”

Smriti Mandhana: Sportswoman of the Year (Team Sports)

Smriti Mandhana, the elegant left-handed batter and captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore Women, bagged the Sportswoman of the Year in Team Sports honor. Her standout performances in the Women’s Premier League and contributions to the Indian women’s cricket team solidified her spot as a leader in team sports.

Mandhana reflected on her achievement:

“This award symbolizes not just personal success but the rising stature of women’s cricket in India. I hope it motivates many young girls to dream big.”

Harmanpreet Singh: Sportsman of the Year (Team Sports)

The Indian men’s hockey team captain, Harmanpreet Singh, won the Sportsman of the Year in Team Sports. Harmanpreet led the team to a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics and the Asian Champions Trophy title. Acknowledging the collective effort, he dedicated the award to his team:

“This recognition is for the entire hockey fraternity. It’s a proud moment for Indian hockey.”

Special Recognition: Yashasvi Jaiswal

Rising cricket star Yashasvi Jaiswal received the Star Sports Believe Honor and the Popular Choice Breakthrough Performance of the Year award for his meteoric rise in international cricket. His performances in the IPL and debut century for India have marked him as a player to watch in the coming years.

Complete List of Indian Sports Honours 2024 Winners:

- Sportsman of the Year (Individual Sport) - Neeraj Chopra

- Sportswoman of the Year (Individual Sport) - Manu Bhaker

- Sportsman of the Year (Team Sport) - Harmanpreet Singh

- Sportswoman of the Year (Team Sport)- Smriti Mandhana

- Coach of the Year (Men) - Jaspal Rana

- Coach of the Year (Women) – Suma Shirur

- Team of the Year (Men) - Indian Hockey Team

- Team of the Year (Women) - Chess

- Star Sports Believe Honour - Yashasvi Jaiswal

- Para Athlete of the Year (Men) - Sumit Antil

- Para Athlete of the Year (Female) - Avani Lekhara

- SSF Grassroots Initiative of the Year Honour - Soil Education University

- Popular Choice Breakthrough Performance of the Year (Male) - Yashasvi Jaiswal

- Popular Choice Breakthrough Performance of the Year (Female) - Shreyanka Patil

- Popular Choice Club of the Year - Kolkata Knight Riders

- Popular Choice Fan Club of the Year - Manjappada (Kerala Blasters)

- Lifetime Achievement Honor - Padma Shri Murlikant Petkar

A Star-Studded Jury

The jury, led by Abhinav Bindra, included PT Usha, Vijender Singh, and others who evaluated performances based on consistency, impact, and global achievements. Speaking on the caliber of athletes, Bindra noted:

“This generation of athletes exudes confidence and a winning mindset. It’s inspiring to witness their journeys.”

Driving Change in Indian Sports

While applauding the elite athletes, Bindra also emphasized the need for grassroots development:

“Infrastructure improvements are commendable, but initiatives need to focus on ensuring playgrounds and facilities at the school level.”

The Indian Sports Honours 2024 was a testament to the relentless spirit and dedication of India’s sporting icons. As they continue to push boundaries, the nation’s global sports footprint only grows stronger.