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Published 19:01 IST, August 9th 2024

Check Out Neeraj Chopra's Reaction To Sreejesh Being Asked To Be India's Flag Bearer

Neeraj Chopra showed his grace and humility when he agreed that PR Sreejesh should be India's flag bearer.

Neeraj Chopra Lets Sreejesh Be Flag Bearer | Image: AP

The President of the Indian Olympic Association, PT Usha has revealed how Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra graciously stepped aside and allowed PR Sreejesh to be India's flag bearer at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics. On August 9th it was reported that PR Sreejesh would be the joint flag bearer for India along with shooter Manu Bhaker. There was confusing regarding who of Sreejesh and Neeraj should be India's flag bearer and it was ultimately decided to be given to Sreejesh. 

Neeraj Chopra's Selfless Act 

PT Usha has just revealed the selfless act that Neeraj Chopra put and how he stepped aside to let Sreejesh to be the flag bearer for India during the closing ceremony. While speaking to PTI, Usha revealed that she spoke to Neeraj Chopra and he agreed that Sreejesh should be the flagbearer for India at the closing ceremony. PT Usha also revealed that Neeraj Chopra told her that he himself would have suggested Sreejesh's name for the honor. 

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While speaking to PTI, PT Usha said, “I spoke with Neeraj Chopra and appreciate the spontaneity and grace with which he agreed that Sreejesh should be the flag-bearer at the Closing Ceremony. He told me ‘Ma’am, even if you had not asked me, I would have suggested Sree bhai’s name. It is reflective of the immense respect Neeraj has for Sreejesh and his contribution to Indian sport.” 

Sreejesh's Emotional Farewell 

PT Usha when speaking about the decision to make Sreejesh, India's flag bearer said that Sreejesh was both an emotional and popular choice amongst the IOA and, “Sreejesh has served Indian hockey in particular and Indian sport in general admirably through more than two decades.”

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This was the last Olympic games for the “Wall Of India” Sreejesh who announced his retirement after winning the bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Updated 19:01 IST, August 9th 2024

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