Kerala government announces bumper prize money for PR Sreejesh following historic bronze glory at Paris Olympics

The Kerala government has announced a cash reward of Rs 2 crore for Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh. Hailing from Kerala, Sreejesh recently retired from the game after an illustrious career, most notably as India's goalkeeper during the Paris Olympics 2024. The Indian hockey team clinched the bronze medal at the Olympics, defeating Spain 2-1. This marked the first time in 52 years that India won consecutive Olympic medals in hockey. Following his retirement, Sreejesh will take on the role of head coach for the junior men's hockey team.

Rs 2 crore prize money for PR Sreejesh

The Kerala government, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, has announced a cash reward for Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh. The decision was made at a Cabinet meeting, according to a CMO statement.

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“P R Sreejesh, who was a member of the Indian hockey team that won a bronze medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics, will be given a cash award of Rs two crore,” the CMO statement read.

Previously, during India's bronze medal victory at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, Sreejesh was also awarded a cash prize of Rs 2 crore.

PR Sreejesh has indicated that he will dedicate the next 2-3 months to mental preparation for his new role as the head coach of the Indian junior men's hockey team. Following his successful campaign at the Paris Olympics, Sreejesh returned to his home state of Kerala and received a grand welcome upon his arrival in Kochi on August 16. The welcome included a celebratory roadshow from Kochi airport to Palarivattom.

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Sreejesh receives hero's welcome upon return

Upon his arrival at the airport on Friday, Sreejesh was greeted by a large crowd, including several MLAs, who cheered enthusiastically. As he exited the terminal, fans waved placards featuring his photo, according to PTI. The hockey star then embarked on a celebratory roadshow in an open-top jeep.

Along the route, spectators waved, cheered, and presented him with flowers and bouquets. Many also approached the vehicle to shake his hand and offer congratulations. Sreejesh's first assignment as the head coach of the Junior Men's hockey team is anticipated to be the Sultan of Johor Cup, which will take place in October of this year.

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