.jpg)
India’s hockey team, led by Harmanpreet Singh, clinched the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics 2024, marking yet another proud moment in the nation’s sporting history. Despite a heart-wrenching semi-final loss to Germany, the Indian team showed remarkable resilience by defeating Spain 2-1 in the bronze-medal match. One of the standout moments following this victory was a deeply emotional post shared by veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh, expressing his gratitude to his family.
Manpreet Singh, who was an integral part of the team’s success, took to social media to share an endearing picture where he can be seen resting on his mother’s lap. The photo also featured his wife, Illi Najwa Saddique, and their daughter, Jasmine, adding to the heartwarming nature of the moment. In his post, Manpreet thanked his family for their unwavering support and sacrifices, dedicating the hard-earned bronze medal to his late father.
“This is a special thank-you note for the three angels in my life—my mother, my wife, and the center of my universe, my heart Jasmine. Feeling incredibly proud and blessed—resting in my mother’s lap with my 2nd Olympic medal for the country,” Manpreet wrote. “This moment truly embodies my journey and achievements. Thank you for always being by my side, for the unconditional support and sacrifices you guys have made—this medal belongs to you and especially for Daddy as much as it belongs to me!” he added.
https://twitter.com/manpreetpawar07/status/1822624362857636088
The bronze-medal match was a tense affair, with India initially trailing 0-1 against a determined Spanish side. However, Harmanpreet Singh, demonstrating his leadership and skill, scored twice to turn the tide in India’s favor. Once in the lead, the Indian team held their nerve, controlling the game and securing a historic victory.
This bronze medal adds to India’s growing legacy in Olympic hockey, coming just three years after their landmark bronze in Tokyo 2021 under Manpreet’s captaincy, which ended a 41-year medal drought. The Paris Olympics also marked the end of an era for India’s legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who retired from international hockey after the tournament and proudly served as India’s flag-bearer at the closing ceremony.
Manpreet Singh’s heartfelt message reflects not just the emotional journey of an athlete but also the crucial role that family plays in supporting and motivating them through the highs and lows of their career.
