PR Sreejesh, the veteran Indian hockey goalkeeper, has been selected as India's flag-bearer for the Closing Ceremony of the Paris Olympics, a decision that was both emotional and widely supported. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha revealed that the Neeraj Chopra suggested Sreejes’s selection and it would be great opportunity to reflect his outstanding two-decade-long contribution to Indian hockey and sports.
She said, “Although Olympic silver medallist Neeraj Chopra was also a contender for the role, Chopra himself recommended Sreejesh for the honor.”
She added, "Neeraj told me, ‘Ma’am, even if you had not asked me, I would have suggested Sree bhai’s name,’" said Usha, highlighting the deep respect Chopra has for Sreejesh.
“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,” she said.
Sreejesh, who recently retired after helping India secure a bronze medal in Paris, has participated in four Olympic Games and was a key figure in India's bronze-winning team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Joining Sreejesh as co-flag bearer is 23-year-old pistol shooter Manu Bhaker, who made history at Paris 2024 by winning two medals, becoming only the second Indian woman to achieve this feat at the Olympics.
Wrestler Bajrang Punia previously held the honor of carrying India's flag during the Tokyo Olympics Closing Ceremony.
As of now, India has won five medals at the ongoing Olympics, with a potential sixth on the horizon as Aman Sehrawat competes in the bronze medal match in men's freestyle 57kg on Friday.
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