Hockey India retires PR Sreejesh’s jersey No. 16 as famed goalkeeper bids adieu to the sport
In a heartfelt gesture, Hockey India has retired the jersey No.16, which was worn by celebrated Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. The decision was announced at a felicitation ceremony for Sreejesh, held in Delhi on August 14.
Prior to the Paris Olympics 2024, Sreejesh had announced his retirement from the sport after the conclusion of the Games. As a tribute to the player, jersey No. 16, will no longer be donned by any player of the senior team.
This significant decision was announced by Bhola Nath Singh, the Secretary General of Hockey India.
“PR Sreejesh's retirement marks a significant moment in the history of Indian hockey. His contributions to Indian hockey go far beyond the countless saves and victories on the field," said Singh at the event, adding, "Thus, Hockey India, has decided to retire the jersey no.16 at the senior level as a tribute to the ‘God of Modern Indian Hockey, PR Sreejesh.”
In attendance at Sreejesh's felicitation were his teammates and also many former Indian hockey legends. All of his teammates wore a red Indian jersey with Sreejesh's name and the No.16 on their backs.
The goalkeeper boasts of being the FIH Best Goalkeeper of the Year twice, in 2020-21 and 2021-22. He was also bestowed with the Padma Shri Award, Arjuna Award and the Khel Ratna Award among many other accolades. He played a role in India's bronze medal wins at both the Paris 2024 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
PR Sreejesh at the forefront of the Indian hockey team’s success at the Paris Olympics 2024
If there is one athlete who has become a household name after the Summer Games, it is PR Sreejesh.
Sreejesh was at his absolute best in Paris, saving 50 out of the 62 goal attempts made against him. Known as the ‘Wall of India’, Sreejesh was instrumental in India’s emphatic victory against Great Britain in the quarterfinals. The ace player brought all his experience to the front in helping India win the penalty shootout 4-2.
India then went on to defeat Spain 2-1 in the bronze medal match to clinch a second consecutive Olympic medal in Paris.