A 2023 Asian Champion, the Indian compounder had never medalled individually outside the continent and missed out on selection for the first three stages of this year’s World Cup circuit – in Florida, Shanghai and Antalya.
But this version of Kaur – competing in Madrid – is different from the one who’s featured inconsistently over the past two years.
Previously, she admitted to being “distracted” by the consequences of individual shots and overwhelmed by the scale of major international events. This time, she came armed with new tools – practices recommended by India’s sports psychologist.
Kaur was just two points off her personal best of 704 with 702 points in the 72-arrow qualification round on Tuesday and now stands two matches away from her first World Cup podium.
“For me, to make some three steps that I want to focus on during my shot,” said Kaur, describing her new mental routine given. “And when I’m not shooting and sitting behind [the line], she told me to do a bit of calligraphy or draw something. That’s improved my focus pretty well.”
A medal in Madrid won’t be easy. Kaur faces reigning European Champion Gibson in the semifinal, with a potential final (or bronze final) against either Asian Games Champion – and teammate – Jyothi Surekha Vennam or Antalya runner-up Han Seungyeon.
Scott will shoot against Türkiye’s Emircan Haney, while world number one Mike Schloesser and Nicolas Girard face off in the other men’s semifinal.
As both Scott and Kaur sit lower in the World Cup rankings, they must win gold in Madrid to qualify for the Hyundai Archery World Cup Final in Nanjing later this year.
Competition in Madrid continues Friday with mixed team eliminations in the morning, followed by recurve eliminations in the afternoon.
