Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi — August 10, 2024: The Indian men’s hockey team received a warm and jubilant welcome at Indira Gandhi International Airport today, following their triumphant performance at the Paris Olympics. The team, which clinched the bronze medal in a gripping match against Spain, was greeted with garlands and celebratory dhol beats as they made their way through arrivals this morning.
Among the team members returning today are Harmanpreet Singh, who played a pivotal role in the team’s success, and his fellow players Amit Rohidas, Raj Kumar Pal, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, and Sanjay. These players were met with enthusiastic cheers from supporters, reflecting the pride and admiration the nation holds for their achievement.
PR Sreejesh, the team’s esteemed goalkeeper and one of the standout players of the tournament, remained in Paris to participate in the closing ceremony as a joint flag bearer. Sreejesh shared this honor with Manu Bhaker, a double medallist from the Paris Games. Other members of the squad who stayed behind include Harmanpreet and a few key players.
On his arrival, Harmanpreet Singh expressed his gratitude and pride in the team’s accomplishment. “We have received all the support, and all our requirements were fulfilled. I really want to thank everyone who has been a part of this journey. We are very happy and proud,” he told the media.
Harmanpreet, who scored two crucial goals in the bronze medal match against Spain, emphasized the significance of the win. “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,” he added.
India’s bronze medal win is a historic milestone, marking the country’s 13th medal in men’s hockey across Olympic Games. It also signifies the first time since 1972 that India has secured back-to-back Olympic medals in the sport. The victory was achieved with a 2-1 win over Spain at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, with Harmanpreet Singh’s twin strikes in the 30th and 33rd minutes proving decisive. His performance not only secured the bronze but also earned him the title of the tournament’s highest goal-scorer in the men’s category, with a total of 10 goals.
As the team returns home, the celebration of their success continues, reflecting the significant impact of their historic achievement on Indian hockey.
