Ronjan Sodhi to become world No 1 in double trap

Come August 1 and India's champion double-trap shooter Ronjan Sodhi will become the world No 1 in the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) rankings.

The numero uno status will add to Sodhi's growing list of honours and achievements in recent years -- he recently won a bronze medal at the ISSF shotgun World Cup in Maribor, Slovenia.

The unassuming shooter is, naturally, thrilled.

"It will be great for me if I become the world number one. I am delighted at the prospect," he said.

Sodhi, who had clinched a London Olympics quota spot with a silver medal at the World Cup stage in Beijing earlier this year, said his ultimate ambition is to win a medal at the quadrennial extravaganza.

"Ranking keeps on changing. If I become world number one, I am not going to be holding on to that position forever. But an Olympic medal is something that stays with you all your life," said Sodhi.

The Ferozepur-born shooter, who had once shot a perfect 50 in the final of an ISSF World Cup in Lonato on his way to a world record gold medal-winning effort, thanked those who had played a role in shaping his career.

"What I am today is because of my country. I am also grateful to everyone who has helped me. I was fortunate to be in good company," said Sodhi, currently world No 2.

Photograph: Getty Images