KOCHI: Nine months ago, while speaking to TOI, PR Sreejesh had mentioned that he would make a call regarding his future before the Olympics. True to his word, the Indian hockey custodian announced on Monday that he would end his playing career in Paris, just four days before the 33rd edition of the sporting jamboree begins.
Moments after making the decision public, the two-time FIH goalkeeper of the year explained why he felt the time was ripe to step away. “Participating in the Olympics is the ultimate pinnacle of achievement for any sportsperson. I have been lucky enough to represent India in four editions. I am 36. There are youngsters waiting in the wings, and I reckon it’s time they take the mantle from me. And there is no better stage to end your career than the Olympics,” Sreejesh told TOI from the Olympic Village in Paris. He is now set to become the first Indian custodian to play in four Olympics.
