Paris Olympics 2024: This opportunity motivates me to work..., says Sanjay ahead of debut

Indian Men's Hockey Team player Sanjay, a rising star from Haryana, set to debut at Olympics in Paris.

The Indian Men's Hockey Team player Sanjay, who is a formidable defender and drag-flicker from Dabra village near Hisar, Haryana, is set to make his debut at the Olympics in Paris.

Emerging as one of the most promising players in Indian hockey, Sanjay's journey from a small village to the grand stage of the Olympics is a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Speaking about playing in his maiden Olympics, Sanjay said, as quoted by a Hockey India press release, "I am honoured to be a part of the Indian team for the Paris Olympics. Like any other player, it was my dream to play in the Olympics, so I am happy that my hard work paid off and I made it to the squad for the Paris Olympics. This opportunity motivates me to work even harder and contribute to our team's success. I look forward to making my country proud at the biggest sporting stage."

"My family was overjoyed when I shared the news of my selection for the Paris Olympics. Their blessings and encouragement have been a tremendous source of motivation for me to give my best in the event and make them proud," he added.

Sanjay first caught the nation's attention during the 2021 Junior Hockey World Cup, where he emerged as the highest scorer for India with eight goals, including two hat-tricks. His outstanding performance not only made him the third-highest scorer in the tournament but also showcased his potential as a future star in Indian hockey.

Sanjay made his senior team debut in June 2022 and quickly made an impact by helping India win the inaugural FIH Hockey5s. His contributions to the team have been significant, and his skills as a drag-flicker have been instrumental in securing crucial victories.

He has also participated in major tournaments such as the 19th Asian Games 2022 in Hangzhou, China and the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Chennai 2023, where the team clinched Gold medals. His performance in the FIH Odisha Hockey Men's Junior World Cup Bhubaneswar 2021 earned India a 4th position, and he secured a silver medal in the 3rd Youth Olympic Games 2018.