India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh announces retirement from international hockey ahead of Paris Olympics 2024, says 'I still remember my father selling our cow...'

Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh shared an emotional post announcing his retirement from international hockey. Paris Olympics will be his last dance.

Arun Rawal

• Mon • 22 Jul 2024

PR Sreejesh after India's bronze medal win at Tokyo Olympics (File Photo: Getty Images)

Highlights:

PR Sreejesh has been a part of India's integral wins over the years.

Sreejesh was conferred with the Arjuna Award in 2015 and Padma Shri Award in 2017.

India's veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has announced his retirement from international hockey. Sreejesh will retire after Indian hockey team's Paris Olympics 2024 campaign.

Sreejesh will hope to add another medal to his kitty after a historic bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics.

The 36-year-old who made his international debut in 2006 will be making his fourth Olympic appearances. He has earned 328 international caps and played in multiple Commonwealth Games and World Cups.

Sreejesh’s retirement statement –

“As I stand on the threshold of my final chapter in international hockey, my heart swells with gratitude and reflection. From the modest beginnings at G V Raja Sports School, to this momentous journey that has defined my life, every step has been a testament to dreams, determination, and the support of my loved ones.

I still remember my father selling our cow to buy my first kit. His sacrifice ignited a fire within me, pushing me to strive harder, dream bigger. My first international trip to Australia was filled with wonder and excitement, a young boy chasing a dream on foreign soil.

The 2012 London Olympics was a harsh teacher. Losing all our matches was a bitter pill to swallow, but it was also a turning point. It was in those moments of defeat that I found my resolve to rise, to never back down.

Winning our first Asian Champions Trophy in a nail-biting shootout against Pakistan was a historic moment. The first Asian Games gold, again against Pakistan in another intense shootout, solidified our place in history. These victories were not just for me, but for every Indian who believed in us.

Leading the Indian team as captain in the Olympics was an honor beyond words. And being named the World’s Best Goalkeeper was a recognition that I will cherish forever.

The crowning glory, our Olympic bronze medal in Tokyo 2020, was a dream realized. The tears, the joy, the pride – it was all worth it.

As I prepare for my last dance in Paris, I look back with immense pride and forward with hope. This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I am forever grateful for the love and support from my family, teammates, coaches, and fans.