India has produced many great athletes who have made the country proud. We often hear about cricket stars like Virat Kohli and football legends like Sunil Chhetri. But there are many other talented athletes who do not get the recognition they deserve. These athletes work just as hard and bring glory to India, but they remain in the shadows. In this blog, we will talk about the top 5 underrated Indian athletes who need more appreciation.

1. Dutee Chand (Athletics - Sprinting)

Dutee Chand is one of India's fastest sprinters. She specializes in the 100m and 200m races and has won many medals for India. Dutee became the first Indian woman to win a gold medal in the World University Games in 2019. She has also represented India in the Olympics and the Asian Games. Despite her achievements, she does not get as much media attention as other athletes.

Why does she deserve more recognition?

• First Indian to win gold in the World University Games.
• Holds the national record in the 100m sprint.
• Has overcome many personal and professional challenges to succeed.

2. Rani Rampal (Hockey)

Rani Rampal is one of the finest female hockey players in the world.
She started playing for India when she was just 15 years old. Rani played a key role in leading the Indian women’s hockey team to the Tokyo Olympics 2020 semifinals, a historic achievement. She has been the backbone of Indian hockey for over a decade but does not get as much recognition as cricketers.

Why does she deserve more recognition?

• Captained India to the semifinals of the Olympics.
• One of the best strikers in women’s hockey.
• Helped India win the Asian Champions Trophy and qualify for multiple Olympic events.

3. Jehan Daruvala (Motorsports)

Jehan Daruvala is an Indian motorsports racer who has been making waves in Formula 2. He is one of the few Indian drivers who have competed at a high level in international racing. Jehan has secured multiple podium finishes in Formula 2 and is working hard to reach Formula 1. Despite his incredible achievements, he does not get as much recognition as cricketers or other mainstream athletes.

Why does he deserve more recognition?

• One of India's top Formula 2 racers.
• Has achieved multiple podium finishes in international motorsports.
• Working towards becoming India’s next Formula 1 driver.

4. Manpreet Singh (Hockey)

Manpreet Singh is the captain of the Indian men’s hockey crew. Under his leadership, India won the bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, India's first Olympic hockey medal in 41 years. He has been a consistent performer and has played over 300 international matches. Even though he has achieved so much, he does not get the same level of recognition as cricketers.

Why does he deserve more recognition?

• Led India to an Olympic medal after 41 years.
• One of the best midfielders in the world.
• Has played over 300 international matches and continues to inspire young players.

5. Bhavani Devi (Fencing)

Bhavani Devi is India's first-ever Olympic fencer. She made history by representing India in fencing at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Bhavani has won multiple international medals and has inspired many young athletes to take up fencing. Despite being a pioneer in the sport, she does not receive the appreciation she deserves.

Why does she deserve more recognition?

• First Indian fencer to qualify for the Olympics.
• Won several international fencing championships.
• Opened doors for many young athletes to explore fencing in India.

Conclusion

India has many talented athletes in different sports. However, not all of them get the recognition they deserve. While cricket is the most popular sport in India, we should also appreciate and support other athletes who work hard to bring glory to the country.

By giving more recognition to these underrated athletes, we can encourage more young people to take up different sports. Let’s celebrate all Indian athletes and help them get the fame and support they truly deserve.

Which underrated athlete do you think should get more recognition? Let us know in the comments!

FAQs

Q.1 Who is the most underrated athlete in India?
Many athletes like Dutee Chand, Rani Rampal, and Bhavani Devi do not get the recognition they deserve despite their achievements.

Q.2 Why are some Indian athletes underrated? 
Sports like cricket dominate media coverage, making it difficult for athletes from other sports to gain attention.

Q.3 Has any Indian athlete won gold in motorsports?
While no Indian has won gold in Formula 1, Jehan Daruvala has secured podium finishes in Formula 2 and is on the path to greater success.

Q.4 Which Indian athlete made history in fencing?
Bhavani Devi became the first Indian fencer to compete at the Olympics, making history for the sport in India.

Q.5 How can we support underrated athletes in India?
Following them on social media, watching their games, spreading awareness, and encouraging brands to sponsor them can help support them.

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