The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced on Friday that veteran hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh will serve as India's joint flagbearer alongside pistol shooter Manu Bhaker at the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The decision, endorsed by IOA President PT Usha, was made with unanimous support from IOA leadership, including Chef de Mission Gagan Narang and the entire Indian contingent.
PT Usha highlighted Sreejesh's significant contribution to Indian hockey and sports over his two-decade-long career, calling him both an emotional and popular choice for the honor. "Sreejesh has admirably served Indian hockey and sport for over 20 years," Usha stated.
She also revealed that she had spoken with javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, who won his second consecutive Olympic medal by securing silver on Thursday.
According to Usha, Chopra graciously supported the decision, even suggesting Sreejesh's name himself. "He told me, 'Ma'am, even if you had not asked me, I would have suggested Sree bhai's name.' This reflects the immense respect Neeraj has for Sreejesh and his contributions to Indian sport," Usha added.
Earlier, the IOA had named Manu Bhaker as the female flagbearer in recognition of her historic achievement at the Paris Games, where she became the first Indian athlete since independence to win multiple medals in a single Olympic Games. Bhaker earned bronze medals in the 10m air pistol women's event and the 10m air pistol mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh.
With Sreejesh and Bhaker leading the Indian contingent at the closing ceremony, the country will celebrate the contributions and achievements of its athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.