Two-time Olympic medalist Gurbux Singh heaps praises after Indian men’s hockey team wins bronze in Paris

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As the Indian men’s hockey team secured a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics 2024 with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Spain, the nation celebrated the team’s historic achievement. Gurbux Singh, a former Indian hockey player and two-time Olympic medalist, shared his thoughts on the team's performance and the future of Indian hockey.

Gurbux, who won gold at the Tokyo 1964 Olympics and bronze at the Mexico City 1968 Olympics, expressed his joy and pride in the team’s accomplishment while also reflecting on the legacy of Indian hockey.

Gurbux, when asked about his feelings after India’s bronze medal victory, said to One India exclusively, “It’s a very good thing, and I am happy with the way the team played. I hope and pray that the nation continues to love hockey as much as it does now.

The Indian hockey team has won 13 Olympic medals, but the sport doesn’t get the love it deserves. Many players from this team might retire, but I hope the upcoming generation continues the legacy.”

Gurbux was also asked to comment on the team’s overall performance at the Paris Olympics 2024. He praised the team for their resilience and steady improvement throughout the tournament. “The team played really well in this tournament. They started slowly but kept improving as they moved ahead. They could have reached the finals as well. They lost against Germany, but they played well,” Singh noted.

Gurbux Singh hails Harmanpreet Singh’s efforts to lead India to a bronze medal

One player who stood out in the tournament was captain Harmanpreet Singh, who scored 10 goals—the most by any player in the tournament. Gurbux lauded Harmanpreet’s contributions, saying, “It was a one-man show by Harmanpreet Singh. He was the guiding force in every game. He converted so many penalty corners. Credit to the way he played and led the team.”

The conversation also turned to PR Sreejesh, the veteran goalkeeper, who announced his retirement following the Paris Olympics. Gurbux Singh expressed his admiration for Sreejesh’s career but also reminded fans of another stalwart who might be nearing the end of his journey.

“It was probably the last game for Manpreet Singh as well. Even he has played in four Olympics and has won two medals. I am happy for Sreejesh, but people are forgetting about Manpreet Singh. I’m proud of both of them,” Gurbux Singh remarked.

With the potential retirement of several key players, Gurbux was asked about the future of Indian hockey. He remained optimistic, stating, “The way the team is progressing now, they’ll be motivated going forward.”