Ace pistol shooter Rahi Sarnobat scripted an inspiring comeback at the National Games in Dehradun, clinching gold in the Women’s 25m air pistol event. The 34-year-old, a two-time Olympian, made her return to competitive shooting after a serious health crisis, showcasing immense resilience and determination.
Speaking on the House of Glory podcast, an initiative by the Gagan Narang Sports Foundation, Rahi opened up about her battle with neuropathic pain syndrome, a condition that derailed her life and sporting career in 2022.
Her ordeal began while preparing for the national camp for the World Championships, when she started experiencing nerve pain and hot flashes. Despite undergoing multiple tests—including ECGs and routine diagnostics—no cause was identified initially. “I couldn’t lie down. I had to sit and sleep for months. Finally, my medical team advised me to see a neurologist,” Rahi shared.
After extensive testing, she was diagnosed with neuropathic pain, a condition without a fixed pattern or treatment. “I was sleeping for 17–20 hours a day, staring at the ceiling, just existing. I wasn’t even aiming for a comeback, I just wanted to live a normal life,” she recalled emotionally.
This wasn’t her first major hurdle. Back in 2014, a freak hairline fracture in her shooting arm sidelined her for seven months, but she bounced back to win Asian Games gold in 2018 and competed in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
However, Rahi noted that her latest comeback was far more complex. “Injury during the Rio cycle had a set routine and known treatment. But this time, I was in a dark, uncertain space. I didn’t even know if I’d return to life, let alone sport,” she said.
Recovery began with small steps. Her first task was simply to sit and watch a TV episode for 20 minutes—a challenge due to severe fatigue. Her physiotherapy sessions spanned hours daily, slowly rebuilding her strength.
Rahi’s journey, though painful, has transformed her outlook. “Now, I shoot for myself and the team that stood by me. I’m not trying to prove anything to the world. I’m stronger, more courageous, and I know this dream lives in me for a reason,” she reflected.
Defeating fellow shooter Simranpreet Kaur to claim gold at the National Games marked more than just a victory—it was a testament to Rahi’s unbreakable spirit. “I want to be remembered as someone who made things happen,” she concluded.
