NEW DELHI: Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh made a striking appearance at the Eiffel Tower today, donning a traditional mundu, just days after securing a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics for India. The 36-year-old goalkeeper, celebrated for his remarkable contributions to Indian hockey, chose to embrace his cultural roots while marking his retirement from the sport on the global stage.
Paris is currently in the grip of an intense heatwave, with the temperature soaring to 30°C, outpacing Delhi’s 28°C, as well as Kochi’s 28°C, and Trivandrum’s 27°C. Despite the heat, Sreejesh’s graceful presence at the Eiffel Tower captured the attention of fans and tourists alike, who admired his unique cultural statement.
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Having already announced his retirement from the sport after the Paris Olympics, Sreejesh’s final appearance was nothing short of heroic. In the quarterfinals against Great Britain, he made a series of crucial saves during the shootout, leading India to a 4-2 victory. Throughout the tournament, Sreejesh faced 62 shots and saved 50 of them, further cementing his legacy as one of hockey’s finest goalkeepers.
Sreejesh, who hails from Kizhakkambalam village in Kerala, played a pivotal role in India’s bronze medal win at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well. His illustrious career also includes two FIH Player of the Year Awards (2020-21, 2022) and a gold medal at the 2014 and 2022 Asian Games, contributing to India’s resurgence in the international hockey arena.
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Reflecting on his retirement, Sreejesh said, “I think this is the best way to finish among all Games. Thanks to my team, hockey staff, and IOA for making this tournament so beautiful.” He added, “After this game, people may ask if this will be my last game, and I decided to play like that.”
As he bid farewell to a career spanning 336 international caps, Sreejesh’s appearance at the Eiffel Tower in his traditional attire served as a fitting tribute to his roots, celebrating both his journey and the cultural diversity he proudly represents.