From Ticket Collector to Olympic medal: Swapnil Kusale’s incredible MS Dhoni-like journey

Aug 2, 2024

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From Ticket Collector to Olympic medal: Swapnil Kusale’s incredible MS Dhoni-like journey

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Swapnil Kusale, whose name has recently resonated across India, is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unyielding spirit of the human will. Hailing from a modest background, Kusale’s journey to the pinnacle of Indian sports is as inspiring as it is extraordinary.

Swapnil Kusale’s humble beginning

Like a script straight out of a Bollywood blockbuster, Kusale’s early life bore striking similarities to that of another Indian sporting icon – MS Dhoni. Before he became a household name in the shooting world, Kusale was an unassuming railway ticket collector. This humble beginning, much like Dhoni’s, laid the foundation for a career marked by exceptional grit and determination.

Kusale terms MS Dhoni is an Inspiration

Kusale has openly acknowledged the profound influence of Dhoni on his life and career. While he draws inspiration from various sources in the shooting world, captain cool’s impact transcends the realm of sports. He admires Dhoni not just for his cricketing prowess but for his calm demeanour, patience, and ability to perform under immense pressure. These qualities, the shooter believes, are equally essential for success in shooting.

“I don’t follow anyone specific in the shooting world. Outside of that, I admire Dhoni for the person that he is. My sport requires me to be as calm and patient as he is on the field. I also relate to his story as I am a ticket collector like he was,” Kusale told PTI shortly after finishing seventh in a tightly contested qualification of the event.

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The eye-catching similarities

The parallels between Kusale and Dhoni run deeper. Both men have defied odds and shattered stereotypes to achieve extraordinary feats. Dhoni, a small-town boy, became the captain of the Indian cricket team and led the nation to World Cup glory. Kusale, with his unwavering focus and dedication, has scripted a similar tale of triumph.

In a moment that will be etched in the annals of Indian sports history, Kusale clinched the bronze medal in the 50m rifle three position event at the Paris Games 2024. This historic achievement not only brought immense pride to the nation but also solidified Kusale’s status as a sporting icon.

Kusale’s journey from a ticket collector to an Olympic medallist is a story that will be told and retold for generations to come. It is a story of resilience, hard work, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. It is a moment of national pride, a testament to the potential of Indian sports, and a beacon of hope for millions of aspiring athletes.