PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker to Lead India in Paris Olympics 2024 Closing Ceremony

Hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and pistol shooter Manu Bhaker will be joint flagbearers for India at the Paris Olympics 2024 closing ceremony, according to the Indian Olympic Association. Praised for his leadership, Sreejesh helped secure India’s bronze medal. The achievement was celebrated despite the desire to reach the final.

Hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and pistol shooter Manu Bhaker have been named as the joint flagbearers for India at the closing ceremony of the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024, the Indian Olympic Association announced. The Secretary General of Hockey India, Bhola Nath Singh, praised Sreejesh for his exceptional leadership that led India to a bronze medal finish.

“PR Sreejesh deserved the honour of being the flagbearer. Hockey India extends its gratitude to the government for bestowing this prestigious recognition upon him,” Bhola Nath told reporters. Singh confidently declared that India's team is the best in the world and capable of defeating any opponent.

Reflecting on the team’s journey, Singh stated, “It has been an incredible achievement to win back-to-back bronze medals. We had hoped to reach the final. If Amit Rohidas hadn’t been shown a red card, the outcome could have been different. With him on the field, we believe we could have won gold, and his presence might have changed the result against Germany.”

Despite the disappointment in the semifinal, Singh emphasized that the team’s bronze medal victory was a significant source of national pride. “During the bronze medal match, 18-19 crore people were glued to their TV sets. Many were unaware that we would be landing today because we had not communicated it properly,” he added.

Singh also commended coach Craig Fulton for his understanding of the Indian players and the sport. “Craig Fulton is a splendid coach. He understands the players of India and hockey. He will be with us until the next Olympics. In the 2028 Olympics, we will win the gold medal for India,” Singh stated.

The celebration of the hockey bronze medal showcased the resilience and dedication of the players, supported by Hockey India and fans nationwide. The team’s success stands as a significant contribution to Indian sports.