(MENAFN-IANS) New Delhi, July 11 (IANS) Manpreet Singh, senior midfielder of the Indian hockey team, is excited to represent the country at his fourth Olympic Games in Paris, achieving a remarkable feat that puts him at par with legendary player Dhanraj Pillay.
Manpreet, who is about to compete in his fourth Olympic Games, expressed his excitement and pride saying, “Playing my fourth Olympic Games is a dream come true and a milestone of great pride for me. It is a testament to years of hard work, dedication and unwavering support from my family, coaches and teammates. Following in the footsteps of a legend like Dhanraj Pillay, who has inspired countless athletes, including myself, is an honour beyond words.”
“I am excited to give my all for India in Paris, representing not only my team but also the hopes and dreams of millions of fans back home. Our team is ready to show the spirit and strength of Indian hockey to the world. We are determined to prepare thoroughly and perform at our best to bring honour to our country and make our people proud,” he added.
Manpreet made his senior team debut in 2011. Since then, the dynamic midfielder has earned an impressive 370 caps, scored 27 goals and demonstrated his skill and consistency on the field. His journey with the national team includes participation in three Olympic Games – the 2012 London Olympics, the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he captained the team to a historic bronze medal, India's first Olympic hockey medal in 41 years.
Also, on the team's mindset and expectations going into the Paris Olympics and whether there is any pressure to match their performance at the Tokyo Olympics, Manpreet asserted, “There is no pressure on us. Rather, we are looking forward to performing in every match. No team should be underestimated, irrespective of their ranking. Every team will be competing with their best and so will we.”
“We are focused on taking responsibility and supporting each other as a united team. We believe that by staying focused on the game and keeping a cool head, we can achieve great results. It's all about not succumbing to pressure and playing with passion and determination.”
Notably, the Indian men's hockey team will leave for coach Mike Horn's base in Switzerland on Monday for a three-day training session aimed at building up their mental strength, after which Harmanpreet Singh's men will travel to the Netherlands for a series of practice matches before arriving in Paris on July 20.
India will be placed in Pool B along with defending champions Belgium, Australia, Argentina, New Zealand and Ireland at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
To advance to the quarterfinals, teams must finish in the top four of their pool. Pool A features the Netherlands, Germany, Great Britain, Spain, South Africa and hosts France, making for a fiercely contested 12-team men's hockey tournament.
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