Wed Sep 11 05:08:00 UTC 2024: ## PM Modi Pens Heartfelt Letter to Retired Hockey Legend PR Sreejesh
**New Delhi:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi has penned a heartfelt letter to former Indian hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, acknowledging his “monumental contributions” to the sport.
Sreejesh, who retired from international hockey after securing a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, shared the letter on social media, expressing his gratitude for the Prime Minister’s faith.
In his letter, PM Modi lauded Sreejesh’s “outstanding performance” at the Olympics, calling it a “sweetness of victory.” He also acknowledged the emotional aspect of Sreejesh’s final game, recognizing his transition to coaching the Junior Men’s team.
Modi commended Sreejesh’s impact on the field, recalling his crucial role in India’s rise in hockey. He particularly highlighted the 2014 Asian Games final, where Sreejesh’s penalty saves helped secure India’s gold.
The Prime Minister concluded his letter by expressing his appreciation for the “unforgettable moments” Sreejesh provided to Indian fans.
Sreejesh, often referred to as “The Wall,” holds 328 international caps and is a recipient of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2021), Arjuna Award (2015), and Padma Shri (2017).
His retirement from playing has been marked by the symbolic retirement of his jersey number, 16, by Hockey India. The back-to-back Olympic bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris, in which Sreejesh played a vital role, have solidified his legacy as a true legend of Indian hockey.
First Piper 