Sift Kaur Samra Claims India’s First Gold at ISSF Shooting World Cup, Esha Singh Secures Silver

Indian shooter Sift Kaur Samra delivered a stunning comeback to clinch her first individual ISSF World Cup gold in the women’s 50m rifle 3-positions final in Buenos Aires. The 23-year-old from Faridkot was trailing by 7.2 points after the Kneeling position but showcased remarkable skill and composure, rallying back in the Prone and Standing positions to finish with an impressive 458.6 points. This victory marks India’s inaugural gold of the season-opening World Cup stage.

In addition, Esha Singh secured a silver medal in the women’s 25m pistol final, scoring 35, just behind China’s Sun Yujie, who took gold with 38. Esha’s performance was a testament to her rapid rise, having previously won the mixed team world championship.

Throughout the competition, Indian athletes shone brightly, with a total of three medals — one gold and one silver, alongside a bronze from Chain Singh in the men’s 3P event. The event featured several Olympic medallists, but Sift’s ability to rebound after a shaky start emphasizes her elite status. Despite early struggles in the Kneeling position, her transition to a stellar Standing performance showcased her determination.

While the skeet events did not yield medals for India, the team’s overall performance illustrates the nation’s growing prowess in competitive shooting.