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Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh brought down the curtain on his illustrious 18-year career with a bronze medal win at the Paris Olympics. The iconic goalkeeper played a pivotal role in India's 2-1 victory over Spain, capping off a remarkable career. The victory not only secured a podium finish for the Indian team but also marked a historic achievement. India's back-to-back Olympic hockey medals, a feat not accomplished since 1972, solidified their position as a global hockey powerhouse. This bronze medal is India's fourth at the Paris Olympics and their 13th overall in the sport.
By every means it was a befitting farewell for India's legendary goalkeeper Sreejesh. Let's take you through his illustrious career:
Sreejesh: Diamond in the dust
Hailing from the farming village of Kizhakkambalam in Kerala, PR Sreejesh was born on May 8, 1988, to P.V. Raveendran and Usha. His early years were spent pursuing athletics, excelling in sprints, long jump, and volleyball. A pivotal turning point arrived at the age of 12 when he joined the GV Raja Sports School in Thiruvananthapuram. Recognizing his potential, his coach suggested he try his hand at goalkeeping. This marked the beginning of his journey as a hockey goalkeeper. Under the guidance of coach Jayakumar, Sreejesh honed his skills and eventually embarked on his professional hockey career. He completed his graduation in History from Sree Narayana College in Kollam.
Sreejesh's Professional journey
Sreejesh's journey to becoming a hockey icon began in 2004 when he earned a spot in the Junior National team. His international debut followed in 2006 at the South Asian Games in Colombo. A standout performance at the 2008 Junior Asia Cup earned him the 'Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament' award. Sreejesh's career reached a significant milestone at the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon, where his crucial penalty stroke saves against Pakistan secured India's gold medal. In 2016, he was appointed captain of the Indian hockey team, taking over from Sardar Singh. Leading the team at the Rio Olympics, Sreejesh guided India to the quarterfinals.
The pinnacle of Sreejesh's career came at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where his exceptional performance contributed to India's historic bronze medal win after a 41-year wait.
Sreejesh's Rise as a Kerala Icon
Despite his exceptional talent, Sreejesh faced initial challenges in garnering widespread recognition in his home state of Kerala. However, the state, yearning for a sporting icon since the era of IM Vijayan and Anju Bobby George, found its hero in Sreejesh. His genuine and down-to-earth personality resonated with the masses, making him a beloved figure. The 2014 Asian Games gold medal further elevated his status.
Unlike many sports celebrities, Sreejesh remained grounded and humble. He avoided controversies, shunned extravagant lifestyles, and maintained a simple demeanor. His relatability and approachable nature endeared him to the people of Kerala, solidifying his position as a cherished icon.
Sreejesh's decorated career
PR Sreejesh, who featured in four Olympic Games, has amassed an impressive array of accolades throughout his illustrious career. He clinched a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games. He also secured a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and a gold medal at the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy. Sreejesh's earlier achievements include a gold medal at the 2014 Asian Games and a bronze at the 2018 Asiad. He was a pivotal member of the Asian Champions Trophy-winning team in 2018 and the FIH Men's Series Finals champions in 2019.
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