'Thank You For Your Tireless Dedication': PM Narendra Modi Pens Letter to Hockey ICON PR Sreejesh

PR Sreejesh capped off his journey with the Indian Hockey team with a bronze medal win over Spain at the 2024 Paris Olympics . While the team rooted for the gold, they had to settle for a bronze finish. Sreejesh donned the India jersey, and he was impressive in his last campaign for the team. Hockey India even retired his jersey no. 16 from the senior hockey team after his historic contribution to the nation. 

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PM Narendra Modi sends a letter to PR Sreejesh for services to the Indian Hockey

PR Sreejesh is one of the biggest sporting icons in India.  After helping India to acquire its second straight Olympic bronze medal at the recent Paris Games, Sreejesh, India's respected and experienced custodian, announced his retirement from hockey. Over his incredible career, the 36-year-old has accumulated two Olympic medals, two Asian Games gold medals, and two Champions Trophy silver medals, among other outstanding accomplishments. Hockey India named Sreejesh Head Coach for the junior men's squad last month at a recognition event.

The Ex-Indian custodian unveiled a moving letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi praising his extraordinary career. Expressing his thanks to the PM, Sreejesh wrote on X: 

"Received this heart-warming letter from @narendramodi sir on my retirement," Sreejesh wrote in a post on 'X' while sharing images of the letter.

"Hockey is my life and I'll continue to serve the game and work towards making India a power in hockey, the start of which has been made with the 2020, 2024 Olympic medals. Thank you PM sir for your faith in me," he added.

The Prime Minister Modi’s words on the letter to PR Sreejesh read: 

"I am sure that the final hooter that sounded in the game was only a signal for the beginning of the next half of the game of life, in which you will be the Head Coach of the junior men's team. I am sure your work in the new role will be as impactful and inspirational," 

Hockey India retired jersey number 16 from the senior national squad in honour of Sreejesh. After his outstanding 18-year career, Sreejesh will take on coaching duties to continue developing hockey in India.