After social media outrage, Manu Bhaker’s PR team deletes tweet

| Updated: 24 December, 2024 4:44 pm IST

After social media outrage, Manu Bhaker's PR team deletes tweet.

NEW DELHI: A tweet supporting Olympian Manu Bhaker’s nomination for the Khel Ratna award, posted by Rahul Trehan, COO of her sports management firm, sparked controversy for its perceived attempt to pressure the government. The post faced immediate backlash, with many accusing Trehan of unethical practices. Following the outrage, the tweet was deleted, but not before raising questions about the role of sports managers in shaping narratives.

Trehan, whose firm handles Bhaker, has come under fire for what critics describe as manipulative tactics to gain recognition for the athlete. Many saw the tweet as an unwarranted public lobbying attempt that undermines the merit-based nature of the Khel Ratna award. Social media users condemned the move, with some accusing Trehan of prioritizing personal or professional gains over Bhaker’s reputation.

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The deletion of the tweet is being viewed as a damage-control measure, but the incident has left a lasting impression. “This reflects poorly on the professionalism of sports management agencies,” said a senior sports analyst. Critics argue that the controversy risks overshadowing Bhaker’s genuine achievements, as the focus shifts from her record to the questionable methods employed by her management team.

The backlash has reignited debates about the ethics of sports management and the growing influence of PR campaigns in decisions regarding national honours. Observers suggest that such incidents could tarnish the credibility of the awards themselves. “Athletes deserve recognition based on their performance, not because of publicized pressure,” remarked a former sports official.

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Manu Bhaker, who has stayed silent on the matter, remains caught in the middle of this PR mishap. Supporters continue to vouch for her deserving credentials, urging the public to separate her achievements from the actions of her management.

For Rahul Trehan, the controversy could serve as a cautionary tale. His actions have underscored the potential pitfalls of aggressive PR campaigns, with calls growing for more responsible and ethical approaches in promoting athletes. This incident is a stark reminder of the fine line between advocacy and coercion in the competitive world of sports management.