India won consecutive bronze hockey medals for the first time in 52 years since the 1972 Munich Games
Our Bureau
Paris
The Harmanpreet Singh-led side secured a historic Bronze medal, defeating Spain 2-1, marking their second consecutive Olympic medal in Hockey, an achievement last accomplished 52 years ago. The match, held at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium here on Thursday, was especially significant as it also served as the farewell game for legendary Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who played his last international match.
While playing in an electrifying atmosphere, the Indian team added a fourth medal to their tally at the Paris Olympics after being down 0-1 after the first quarter.
The Indian team, led by Captain Harmanpreet Singh, delivered a stellar performance, with the skipper himself scoring two crucial goals in the 30th and 33rd minutes. Their victory not only secured the Bronze medal but also solidified India’s position as a dominant force in international hockey.
After their bronze medal at the ongoing Paris Olympics, India hockey team coach Shivendra Singh said that they have played one-sidedly throughout the Summer Games. A brace from skipper Harmanpreet Singh and PR Sreejesh’s effortless saves secured a bronze medal for India at the Paris Olympics with a 2-1 win over Spain at the Yves du Manoir Stadium.
Notably, India won consecutive bronze hockey medals for the first time in 52 years since the 1972 Munich Games. Speaking to reporters, Shivendra said that they have performed well and played as a team. “We performed well and throughout the tournament, we have played one-sided and as a team…” Shivendra said.
Talking about Harmanpreet Singh, he added that the skipper was the best played at the Paris Olympics. “Harmanpreet was the best player and he proved himself. He is also the top scorer in the Paris Olympics,” he added.
Indian men’s hockey player Lalit Upadhyay thanked every supporter in India for supporting them throughout the Paris Olympics. “I want to thank every supporter back in India who has supported us from the core of their hearts… I want to thank every player’s commitment, the coaching staff, and also the Government of India, SAI, and TOPs for giving us the facilities. Everyone contributed; that’s why we could win this medal,” Lalit said.
Sreejesh, who was playing his last game for India, went on the ground, filled with emotions, and the rest of the team joined him to celebrate the momentous occasion in India’s hockey history.
Under the reign of coach Craig Fulton, India created history and secured back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics. Goals from Harmanpreet Singh (30′, 33′) for India were enough to get them across the finish line. For Spain, Marc Miralles (18′) was the sole goal scorer.
Hockey India announced a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh for each player of the men’s hockey team and Rs 7.5 lakh for each member of the support staff in recognition of their bronze medal triumph at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey lauded the team’s historic performance, and said, as quoted from HI, “This victory is a testament to the hard work, determination, and resilience of our players and support staff. Winning back-to-back Olympic medals is an extraordinary achievement that reflects the resurgence of Indian hockey on the world stage. On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate the entire team and support staff for their exceptional performance and dedication. The cash prizes are a token of our appreciation for their relentless pursuit of excellence. I would also like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to PR Sreejesh for his stellar career and invaluable contributions to Indian hockey. His legacy will inspire future generations.” Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh added, “The Indian Men’s Hockey Team has once again made the nation proud with their remarkable achievement in Paris. The team’s unity, skill, and perseverance have brought joy to millions of hockey fans across the country. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Captain Harmanpreet Singh, legendary PR Sreejesh, and the entire squad for their historic feat. Hockey India remains committed to supporting our athletes and fostering the growth of hockey in India.”
