As the curtain falls on their illustrious careers, three Indian athletes are set to embark on their final Olympic journey in Paris. Archery veteran Tarundeep Rai, table tennis maestro Achanta Sharath Kamal, and hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, are all determined to leave their mark on the world stage in their fourth, sixth, and fourth Olympic Games, respectively.
Rai, competing in his fourth and final Olympics, is focused on adapting to the unfamiliar flag system at the archery range, recognizing that the heavier flag material might make it challenging to judge wind intensity. He is determined to adjust and perform at his best, embracing the pressure of his last tournament.
Sharath Kamal, who will be India’s male flagbearer at the opening ceremony, is equally eager to make the most of his sixth and final Olympics. He acknowledges the team’s historic qualification for the men’s team event, but his sights are set on achieving even greater feats, like reaching the quarterfinals or securing a medal.
Sreejesh, the bronze medalist from the Tokyo Games, is also determined to make his final performance count. Having considered retirement at various points over the past three years, he believes the Olympic Games are the perfect platform to say goodbye. He emphasizes that this is his last dance and aims to accomplish what has eluded him thus far: an Olympic gold medal.
Despite their achievements, all three athletes share a desire to achieve more. Rai, while acknowledging his shift in perspective from chasing medals to focusing on the process, still harbors a longing for Olympic gold. He believes that his past experiences have taught him that his best performances come when he’s not consumed by the pressure of winning, and he plans to approach the competition with a relaxed mindset.
Sreejesh, having experienced the highs and lows of his career, is focused on sharing his experience with younger players, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and teamwork. He believes that focusing on winning the medal comes first, and the celebrations can come later.
As Rai looks back on his journey, he acknowledges the rapid evolution of archery since his first Olympics in 2004. The increased draw weight of modern bows, while requiring a greater commitment to physical fitness, has also brought about significant advancements in arrow speed and wind resistance. He is proud of his ability to adapt to these changes and to remain competitive at a high level.
Their Olympic farewells offer a chance to reflect on their remarkable achievements and to recognize their lasting impact on Indian sports. These veterans, with their unwavering determination and pursuit of excellence, have inspired a generation of athletes and have left an indelible mark on the world stage.
