PR Sreejesh, the celebrated hockey goalkeeper, will have the honor of being one of India’s flag-bearers at the closing ceremony of the Olympic Games on Sunday, alongside star shooter Manu Bhaker. This recognition comes as a fitting tribute to Sreejesh’s outstanding contributions to the Indian hockey team over the years.

The decision to select Sreejesh was made by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) chief, PT Usha, who consulted with several athletes, including javelin star Neeraj Chopra. According to Usha, even Chopra, who recently made history by winning a silver medal to become the first Indian track and field athlete to secure two Olympic medals, supported the choice of Sreejesh as the flag-bearer.

Sreejesh, who is widely regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers in Indian hockey history, has been a crucial part of the national team for over a decade. His leadership and skill played a pivotal role in India’s bronze medal victory at the Tokyo Olympics three years ago, ending a 41-year medal drought in hockey for the country.

Manu Bhaker, who will join Sreejesh as a flag-bearer, has also had a remarkable Olympic journey. A young shooting sensation, Bhaker has been one of India’s standout performers in recent years and her inclusion as a flag-bearer is a recognition of her growing stature in Indian sports.

As the Olympic Games come to a close, Sreejesh’s role as a flag-bearer will serve as a final salute to a stellar career, while also inspiring the next generation of athletes who look up to him as a legend of Indian sports.