Winning the bronze medal in his final match ahead of retirement is a reward for veteran Indian hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, his wife and former long jumper Aneeshya said. Speaking to media at their Ernakulam residence moments after India beat Spain 2-1 in Paris to retain the Olympic bronze, Aneeshya said the experience of having part of four Olympic Games for India would have helped Sreejesh to cope with the pressure.
"He is participating in the Olympics for the fourth time. He has the experience to overcome the stress and pressure, but we are not that experienced and still feel the pressure. Achieving a medal in the retirement match is a reward for him, it is a dream come true moment for us, our family," Aneeshya, who is a medical practitioner said.
"Words cannot express the pride and joy that I feel now. Achieving a bronze medal for India in the retirement match is truly a reward for his passion and dedication to hockey. I am speechless. We all are proud of him," she added.
PR Sreejesh was in fine touch as India came from behind to beat Spain in the bronze medal match on Thursday evening. Sreejesh stood tall against several Spanish counters and penalty counters to ensure India won a second consecutive Olympic bronze.
