P.R. Sreejesh, an Olympian and one of India’s most revered hockey goalkeepers, stands tall as a symbol of resilience and excellence in Indian sports. Hailing from a small village in Kerala, he rose through the ranks to become a formidable force in world hockey, representing India in 366 international matches over an illustrious 18-year career. Known as "The Great Wall of Indian Hockey," Sreejesh was instrumental in securing historic Olympic bronze medals for India at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Games and led the team as captain to the quarterfinals at the Rio 2016 Olympics. A recipient of the Padma Bhushan (2025)—only the second Indian hockey player to receive this honour after Major Dhyan Chand—he has also been awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (2021), Padma Shri (2017), and Arjuna Award (2015). He was named FIH Goalkeeper of the Year three times (2021, 2022, 2024) and crowned World Games Athlete of the Year in 2021. Beyond the Olympics, his achievements include two Asian Games golds, one bronze, two Commonwealth silver medals, and numerous Champions Trophy honours. Transitioning into coaching, he led India’s junior team to victory in the Junior Asia Cup in 2024, continuing to inspire the next generation of champions.
