In a remarkable ascent to the top of the shooting world, 19-year-old Indian prodigy Suruchi Singh has been crowned the new World No. 1 in the women’s 10m air pistol rankings. The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) announced the updated rankings, which see Singh leapfrogging her Chinese rivals to claim the top spot for the first time in her career.
The achievement comes on the back of a stellar year for the young shooter, who made a fiery debut on the senior international circuit. Suruchi has had a phenomenal 2025 season, clinching individual gold medals in all three ISSF World Cups she has competed in so far—in Munich, Lima, and Buenos Aires. She also secured a mixed team gold in Lima, marking her as one of the most consistent and promising talents in the sport today.
While her precision with the air pistol has made her a global sensation, her life away from the shooting range is rooted in humility and hard work. When she isn’t busy winning medals, Suruchi can be found helping out on her family’s farm in Jhajjar, Haryana. This grounded approach is something her coaches and family attribute to her success, crediting her strong work ethic and mental toughness. Her father, an army veteran, initially wanted her to pursue wrestling, but Suruchi’s passion for shooting led her to the Guru Dronacharya Shooting Academy in Bhiwani at age 13.
Her remarkable rise has not only put a spotlight on her individual talent but has also highlighted India’s growing prominence in shooting. With a significant point lead over her competitors, Suruchi Singh is a testament to the power of dedication and discipline. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, proving that a champion’s path can be as much about grit and determination in the fields of rural India as it is about skill and precision in the international arena.
