PR Sreejesh Reflects on Special Moments with PM Modi and His Retirement at Paris Olympics

Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh, who concluded his illustrious career with a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, has shared his heartfelt experiences from the event, including a memorable meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sreejesh, who recently returned to his home state of Kerala, expressed immense gratitude for the warm reception he received from his fellow countrymen and reflected on the special moments spent with the Prime Minister.

Upon his return, Sreejesh was greeted with enthusiastic cheers from the local community. “It is amazing, from the airport to my hometown, I do not know how many children I met. They were all so happy, chanting my name; it is one of the best things for me,” he told ANI. The outpouring of support from politicians, college students, and the general public made his return even more special.

Sreejesh’s meeting with PM Modi was particularly noteworthy. He praised the Prime Minister for taking time out of his incredibly busy schedule to engage with athletes. “Whenever we go for any tournament, once you come back, you need to meet him. That is what he says to us,” Sreejesh revealed. He further recounted that PM Modi not only spent quality time discussing their performances and improvements but also made a personal gesture by feeding a chocolate to his son. “It is an encouraging thing for us, the busiest person in the country finds time for us. He showcased that he is one of the best leaders in the world. I got permission to have my family meet him; he played with my kids and asked my parents and brother how they were doing. It was fantastic.”

On the occasion of Independence Day, PM Modi met with the Indian contingent from the Paris Olympics at his residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, in the national capital.

Reflecting on his career, Sreejesh noted the significance of the Paris Olympics. Although he was unable to bring his family along, he honored them by naming his playing sticks after his children and his shootout stick after his wife. “Paris Olympics was special. I had made up my mind before to retire. I took two sticks (kids) and a shootout stick (wife). I got a great farewell; I was honored,” he said.

Sreejesh also addressed being called the ‘God of Modern Hockey,’ a compliment he holds in high regard. “The God of Modern Hockey is a great compliment. I have heard the ‘God of Cricket,’ Sachin Tendulkar. What else can you dream about?” he remarked.

Looking ahead, Sreejesh confirmed his intention to continue contributing to the sport through coaching. He plans to join Hockey India soon, as coaching is a passion he is eager to pursue.

The Harmanpreet Singh-led Indian hockey team secured a historic bronze medal by defeating Spain 2-1 in the Paris Olympics, marking their second consecutive Olympic medal—a feat not achieved in 52 years. The match at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium was also notable for being Sreejesh’s final international appearance, bringing a poignant end to his remarkable career.