The Indian men’s hockey team, fresh off their Olympic bronze medal win, arrived in New Delhi on Saturday morning to a grand reception. The team, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, clinched a 2-1 victory over Spain in the third-place match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, extending India’s record medal haul in hockey to 13.
While the majority of the team returned home, some key players, including goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, stayed in Paris for the Games’ closing ceremony. Sreejesh was honored as a joint flag bearer alongside double medallist Manu Bhaker. Amit Rohidas, Raj Kumar Pal, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, and Sanjay will return after the ceremony.
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Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi Airport, Harmanpreet and his teammates were welcomed with garlands and celebratory dhol beats. Harmanpreet expressed his gratitude and pride, stating, “We have received all the support, and all our requirements were fulfilled. We are very happy and proud. It is a big achievement for hockey. The love that is being showered upon hockey doubles our responsibility. We will also try that whenever we enter the field, we come back with a medal.”
The bronze medal win is India’s 13th overall in men’s hockey, adding to their tally of eight golds and one silver. This achievement marks the first time since 1972 that India has secured consecutive Olympic medals in hockey. Harmanpreet Singh’s two goals in the bronze medal match took his tournament tally to 10, making him the highest goal-scorer in the men’s category.
The team’s triumphant return highlights a significant moment for Indian hockey, reflecting both the team’s dedication and the growing support for the sport in the country.
