He is just 28 and has already achieved legendary status in Indian Hockey. Known as one of the best drag flickers in the world, Harmanpreet Singh led the Indian Men’s Hockey Team to a bronze medal at the recently concluded 2024 Paris Olympics. Twice named Player of the Year by Fédération Internationale de Hockey (FIH), Harmanpreet’s accomplishments are nothing short of  extraordinary. Star of Mysore caught up with the Captain at Hotel Radisson Blu Plaza yesterday during his visit to Heritage City of Mysuru to inaugurate this year’s Dasara Sports.—Excerpts:

By S.N. Venkatnag Sobers

Star of Mysore (SOM): How does it feel to be a double Olympic bronze medallist?

Harmanpreet Singh: It feels great to have won two back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics. Compared to previous years, the hockey scene in the country is improving, which is great news for the hockey community and for India.

SOM: We noticed your celebrations were particularly emotional, especially with P.J. Sreejesh. Can you tell us more about that?

Harmanpreet Singh: Sree Bhai (Sreejesh) has dedicated a lot of time to Indian Hockey, from playing for the junior side to the 2024 Olympics. His contribution to the team has been immense. He had already announced that this would be his last Olympic Games and that he would retire from the sport. It was a deeply emotional moment for the entire team. We were together when the Indian men’s hockey team won bronze at the 2020  Tokyo Olympics, and we exchanged our medals then. This time, we did something similar to honour that bond and his incredible journey.

SOM: What would you like to say about Sreejesh?

Harmanpreet Singh: He’s a true legend. It’s not easy to stay committed to a sport for such a long time and remain fit. It requires a lot of sacrifices and dedication. Now that he’s decided to retire for good, we felt it was only fitting to give him a proper send-off with a medal, which we did, and I’m really happy about that.

SOM: After returning from the Olympics, the Indian men’s team won the Asian Champions Trophy. Looking ahead, India will compete in the Hockey Pro League, followed by the Asia Cup and World Cup. How is the team preparing for these challenges?

Harmanpreet Singh: The team is preparing well. But before that, we’ll be playing many games. Next year, we have the Pro League, followed by the Asia Cup. We are focusing on the Asia Cup because it’s our chance to qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup. Every match and tournament is crucial for us, and it’s important to maintain our momentum. This month, we will be playing against Germany, followed by the Indian Hockey League. We have a good number of matches and tournaments lined up to prepare for the bigger events.

SOM: The Indian Hockey Team has performed well in recent years under Head Coach Craig Fulton. What’s your take on that?

Harmanpreet Singh: Craig is an excellent coach with vast experience. He brings a lot of new ideas to the team, which have been incredibly helpful. Since he took over as head coach, we’ve won several medals and tournaments. I hope we continue to achieve more under his guidance.

SOM: Cricket has always received more attention in the country. Do you see any changes in this trend?

Harmanpreet Singh: Yes, there have been significant changes, especially after this Olympics. The last time we won a medal, it was after a long gap, and while people were happy, not many had followed hockey closely. This time, though, people actively followed the sport and cheered us on throughout. Our hockey matches had much higher viewership compared to previous Olympics. I think people’s mindset is changing. While I won’t say everyone should only watch hockey, it’s important to encourage all athletes representing the country, no matter the sport.

SOM: At just 28, you’ve become the captain of Indian Hockey Team. Did you ever imagine playing for and leading the national team when you started?

Harmanpreet Singh: I never imagined playing for the country when I first started. My focus was always on giving my best, putting in the dedication and effort, which is key for any athlete. Watching matches on TV and being inspired by players who represented India motivated me to work harder and make it into the national team. I wanted to contribute at the international level and help win an Olympic medal.

SOM: This is your first visit to Mysuru. How does it feel to inaugurate the Mysuru Dasara Sports Meet?

Harmanpreet Singh: I’m thrilled to have inaugurated this year’s Mysuru Dasara Sports. I’ve heard a lot about Mysuru Dasara being the biggest festival in South India, and being here for the first time is really exciting. The Karnataka Government has been encouraging sports, which is great for future generations. I hope young athletes take full advantage of the opportunities and facilities to reach great heights in their chosen sports.