India's PR Sreejesh Honored as Flag-Bearer at Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony

Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh, who concluded his international career with a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, expressed immense pride at being named flag-bearer for the closing ceremony. Sreejesh and Amit Rohidas stayed back in Paris for the event, while the rest of the team returned to India.

Legendary Indian hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who retired from international hockey after securing a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, expressed immense pride on Saturday upon being named the country's flag-bearer for the closing ceremony. Sreejesh described this recognition as a 'cherry on the cake'.

After clinching the bronze medal, the Indian men's hockey team arrived at New Delhi Airport, but Sreejesh and defender Amit Rohidas stayed back in Paris for the upcoming closing ceremony. Sreejesh, while speaking to ANI at the India House, highlighted the significance of this honor, saying, 'It is my last tournament, last Olympics and I am going out with a medal. Being chosen as the flag-bearer is beyond my dreams.'

Sreejesh shared light-hearted moments with fellow athletes, including Tokyo 2020 gold medalist Neeraj Chopra. Reflecting on his interactions, Sreejesh said, 'We share jokes and Neeraj mentioned how we couldn’t get the national anthem played. But I assured him that everything happens for a reason.'

An inspiring performance by the Indian team, featuring a brace from skipper Harmanpreet Singh and brilliant saves by Sreejesh, led to a 2-1 victory over Spain, earning India a fourth medal at the Paris Olympics. This marked a historic achievement as India won consecutive bronze medals for the first time since the 1972 Munich Games.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) officially nominated Sreejesh and pistol shooter Manu Bhaker as joint flag-bearers for the closing ceremony. IOA President PT Usha highlighted Sreejesh’s over two-decade-long distinguished service to Indian sports, calling his nomination an emotional and popular choice.