NEW DELHI: PR Sreejesh, the renowned hockey goalkeeper, will accompany Manu Bhaker, the celebrated shooter, as the flag-bearers for the Indian delegation during the Olympic Games closing ceremony on Sunday, as confirmed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Friday.
“The Indian Olympic Association is delighted to announce the nomination of hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh as the joint flag-bearer with pistol shooter Manu Bhaker at the Closing Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” the IOA stated in their announcement.

According to PT Usha, the IOA President, the selection of Sreejesh was driven by both sentiment and popularity among the IOA leadership.
Following India’s bronze medal triumph at the current Games, Sreejesh announced his retirement from the sport.

P.R. Sreejesh, the veteran goalkeeper, bid adieu to his illustrious career with a well-deserved 2-1 victory against Spain in the bronze medal playoff match on Thursday. The 36-year-old’s performance was a testament to his unwavering dedication and service to the team over the years.
Usha praised Sreejesh’s contributions, stating, “Sreejesh has served Indian hockey in particular and Indian sport in general admirably through more than two decades.”
Sreejesh’s impact extended beyond the field, as he was bestowed the honour of being the flag-bearer during the closing ceremony of the Hangzhou Asian Games the previous year, further highlighting his significance to Indian sports.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) previously selected Manu Bhaker as the female flag bearer for her exceptional performance at the Olympic Games. Bhaker made history by becoming the first Indian athlete to secure multiple medals in a single Olympics since the country gained independence.
She won bronze medals in the 10m Air Pistol Women and the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team (with Sarabjot Singh).
Bhaker’s achievement is a testament to her skill, dedication, and perseverance in the sport of shooting. Her success has brought pride to the nation and has set a new benchmark for Indian athletes competing at the highest level of international sports.