Former Indian men’s hockey team captain, Manpreet Singh, stands at the threshold of his fourth and likely last Olympic Games. As he prepares for the Paris 2024 Olympics, he reflects on a storied career marked by achievements, challenges, and unwavering determination.
Manpreet Singh’s Hockey Journey
Manpreet’s journey from his humble village in Mithapur, Jalandhar, to the grand stage of the Olympics has been anything but easy. Poverty, false allegations, and his mother’s hardships shaped his path.
He made his debut for India in 2011 at just 19 years old and has since been an integral part of the team’s successes, including winning Asian Games gold medals in 2014 and 2022.
As the captain of the Indian team, Manpreet played a pivotal role in breaking a 41-year-old Olympic medal drought by securing a bronze at the Tokyo Olympics. His resilience and leadership were crucial during tough times, especially when faced with serious allegations from former coach Sjoerd Marijne.
Manpreet considers himself lucky to have participated in four Olympics. For any athlete, the Olympics represent a dream fulfilled, and he cherishes this opportunity. With unwavering focus, he approaches Paris as if it were his last Olympics, determined to give his best performance on the world’s biggest sporting stage. Retirement is not yet on his mind; his sole focus remains on the upcoming challenge in Paris.
“I never thought that I would be able to play four Olympics. It is every player’s dream to play in the Olympics and win medals. I consider myself very lucky that this is my fourth Olympics,” Manpreet told PTI.
“I am going to Paris thinking as if it is my last Olympics and I have to give my best. I haven’t thought about quitting the game yet and my complete focus is on the Paris Games,” the experienced midfielder said.
During the difficult phase post-Tokyo, Manpreet leaned on his family and team. Their unwavering support helped him overcome adversity. His mother encouraged him to continue playing, fulfilling his late father’s dream. The team’s solidarity provided encouragement and paved the way for his comeback.
VIDEO | Indian Hockey Team Senior Midfielder Manpreet Singh is playing his fourth Olympics in Paris, which will get underway on July 26. Here's what he said expressing his joy and pride.
"I am feeling very good. I had not thought I will play four Olympics. It is an athlete's… pic.twitter.com/CIRVxEpFib
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 11, 2024
In Paris, Manpreet Singh will leave a lasting impact, carrying with him the spirit of resilience, determination, and the love for the game that has defined his remarkable journey. As the curtain falls on his Olympic career, he aims to make it memorable—one last time.
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