From Manpreet Singh to PR Sreejesh, India Hockey Stars who have played their last Olympics at Paris 2024

In a historic moment for Indian hockey, the men's team clinched its second consecutive Olympic bronze medal by defeating Spain 2-1 at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Thursday.

Led by captain Harmanpreet Singh this victory, which marked India's 13th men's hockey medal at the Summer Games, was a fitting tribute to the legendary careers of Manpreet Singh, P.R. Sreejesh, and Lalit Upadhyay - who are set to call curtains on their illustrious Olympic careers.

Manpreet Singh

Manpreet Singh, born on June 26, 1992, in Punjab, has been a pillar of Indian hockey for over a decade. A four-time Olympian, Manpreet first represented India at the 2012 London Olympics. However, it was his leadership during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics that truly etched his name in the annals of Indian sports history, guiding India to a bronze medal- its first Olympic podium finish since 1980.

In Paris, although he had handed over the captain's armband to Harmanpreet, Manpreet's experience and tactical acumen were instrumental once again as the team overcame formidable challenges to secure another bronze. His ability to rally the team, particularly in high-pressure situations, underscores the legacy he leaves behind as one of India's finest captains.

P.R. Sreejesh

P.R. Sreejesh, widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers of his generation, has been the backbone of Indian defense for years. Born on May 8, 1988, in Kerala, Sreejesh's career is studded with numerous accolades and heroic performances. His crowning moment before Paris was at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where his crucial saves in the bronze medal match against Germany ensured India's victory.

In Paris, Sreejesh once again delivered under pressure, making key saves that were pivotal in India securing another bronze. With over 328 international appearances, Sreejesh has been the cornerstone of the Indian team, providing both stability and inspiration.

Having already announced his retirement, Sreejesh will leave behind a legacy that will be hard to match, his contributions at the 2016 Rio Olympics and various Champions Trophies and Asian Games solidifying his status as a legend.

Lalit Upadhyay

Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, born on December 1, 1993, in Varanasi, has been an integral part of India's forward line. With 168 international appearances and 45 goals to his name, Lalit has been a consistent performer for the national team. A member of the bronze-winning team at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Lalit further solidified his place in Indian hockey history at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

His goal in India's thrilling 3-2 victory over Great Britain was a highlight of the tournament, contributing significantly to the team's eventual bronze medal finish. Lalit was also part of the gold-medal-winning team at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou.