Hockey great PR Sreejesh will share the honor of being India’s flag-bearer with shooter Manu Bhaker at the Paris 2024 Olympics Closing Ceremony, set for August 11. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) made the announcement after the Indian men’s hockey team clinched a second consecutive Olympic bronze medal.
Initially, Manu Bhaker was named as the sole flag-bearer earlier this week. However, following Thursday’s hockey triumph, the IOA decided to include Sreejesh in the role. The 36-year-old veteran, who recently announced his retirement after participating in his fourth Olympic Games, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity.
“Being chosen to carry the Indian flag at the Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony is beyond words,” Sreejesh said. “To do so alongside Manu Bhaker makes it even more special.”
IOA President Dr. PT Usha highlighted Sreejesh’s extensive contribution to Indian sports, noting that his selection was both a popular and sentimental decision.
The IOA had also considered javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, who won silver at Paris 2024, but Chopra suggested that Sreejesh should be given the honor.
“Neeraj graciously agreed and even suggested that Sreejesh should be the flag-bearer,” said Usha. “This speaks volumes about the respect Neeraj has for Sreejesh and his legacy in Indian sports.”
Manu Bhaker, the 23-year-old shooting star, will join Sreejesh in leading the Indian delegation during the ceremony. Bhaker made history in Paris by becoming only the second Indian woman to win two Olympic medals, following PV Sindhu.
In Tokyo 2020, wrestler Bajrang Punia carried the flag for India during the Closing Ceremony. Sreejesh also served as the flag-bearer during the closing ceremony of the previous Asian Games, where the Indian men’s hockey team took home the gold.
