PR Sreejesh’s No.16 shirt was retired on Wednesday as Hockey India hosted a grand celebration for the retired goalkeeper and recognising him with the title of ‘God of Modern Indian Hockey’.
Hockey India presented Sreejesh with a bouquet, memento and prize money for his contribution to Indian hockey.
Sreejesh, who dedicated 18 years of his life to Indian hockey, played an instrumental role in India’s bronze medal at Paris 2024, just as he did in Tokyo 2020. This achievement marked the team’s second consecutive podium finish after 52 years.
The celebration of Sreejesh’s career was further highlighted by a special performance from music producer and social media sensation Yashraj Mukhate, who created an anthem to spur the Indian Men’s Hockey Team’s campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
From farm to hockey field
Born in May 1988 in Kerala, PR Sreejesh hails from a family of farmers. He began playing hockey at the age of 12 and made his debut with India juniors in 2004, followed by his senior debut in 2006. Over the years, Sreejesh became a veteran of four Olympic Games (2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024), four World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018, and 2023), three Asian Games (2014, 2018, and 2022), and three Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, and 2022).
He has been instrumental in several memorable victories for India, including two Olympic bronze medals (Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024), two Asian Games gold (2014 and 2022), one Asian Games bronze (2018), and two Commonwealth Games silver (2014 and 2022). Additionally, he has played a key role in India winning the Asian Champions Trophy four times (2011, 2016, 2018, and 2023).
From the Arjuna Award to the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, World Games Athlete of the Year, and two-time winner of FIH Best Goalkeeper of the Year, Sreejesh has earned numerous accolades throughout his career for his contributions to the sport.
Sreejesh said: “Eighteen years is a long journey. I’ve experienced all the highs and lows, but it has shaped me into the person I am today. I’ve enjoyed every minute of my time as an international player, and will deeply miss my teammates, who have become a second family to me.
“While life will certainly be different without playing, I am not stepping away from the sport. I have plans for the future and am excited for this new chapter in my life. I will cherish this day forever. Thank you so much to everyone who has been a part of this special occasion,” he added.
Meanwhile, Indian men’s captain Harmanpreet Singh, said: “Sreejesh has become a crucial part of our lives. He has always guided us like an elder brother on and off the pitch. I’m so happy that we could give him a fairytale farewell with the Olympic medal. As he hangs his gloves, I would like to wish him all the best for his future endeavours.”
