At the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, celebrated hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and star shooter Manu Bhaker were honored as the flag-bearers for the Indian contingent. This distinction recognized their significant contributions to Indian sports. Sreejesh, who recently wrapped up an illustrious 18-year career with a bronze medal, was chosen following strong recommendations from Indian Olympic Association (IOA) chief PT Usha and support from renowned javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. Usha described Sreejesh as an “emotional and popular choice,” underscoring his influence and respect within the sports community.
Joining Sreejesh was 22-year-old Manu Bhaker, who made history by securing two bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and the 10m air pistol mixed team events. Bhaker also achieved a notable fourth-place finish in the 25m pistol event, becoming the first Indian athlete post-Independence to win multiple medals in a single Olympic Games. Their roles as flag-bearers symbolize India’s growing prominence in the global sporting arena and highlight the country’s ambitious aspirations as it looks forward to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Sreejesh and Bhaker’s selection as flag-bearers at the Paris Games closing ceremony reflects not only their personal achievements but also the broader success and potential of Indian sports on the world stage. Their presence was a proud moment for India, signaling a bright future as the nation prepares for the next Olympic Games.
This distinction recognized their significant contributions to Indian sports. Sreejesh, who recently wrapped up an illustrious 18-year career with a bronze medal, was chosen following strong recommendations from Indian Olympic Association (IOA) chief PT Usha and support from renowned javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. Usha described Sreejesh as an “emotional and popular choice,” underscoring his influence and respect within the sports community.
Joining Sreejesh was 22-year-old Manu Bhaker, who made history by securing two bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and the 10m air pistol mixed team events. Bhaker also achieved a notable fourth-place finish in the 25m pistol event, becoming the first Indian athlete post-Independence to win multiple medals in a single Olympic Games. Their roles as flag-bearers symbolize India’s growing prominence in the global sporting arena and highlight the country’s ambitious aspirations as it looks forward to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Sreejesh and Bhaker’s selection as flag-bearers at the Paris Games closing ceremony reflects not only their personal achievements but also the broader success and potential of Indian sports on the world stage. Their presence was a proud moment for India, signaling a bright future as the nation prepares for the next Olympic Games.
