Two-time Olympic medallist hockey ahead Lalit Upadhyay calls time on worldwide profession

From making his debut on the 2014 World Cup to standing tall on the Olympic podium twice, Lalit’s profession is a time-line of a few of Indian hockey’s greatest milestones within the trendy period.

He was an important a part of the squad that scripted historical past on the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, serving to India clinch a long-awaited bronze medal, and repeated the feat on the Paris Games in 2024, reinforcing his repute as a big-match participant.

“This journey began in a small village, with limited resources but limitless dreams,” Lalit introduced his choice by means of a heartfelt social media publish shortly after India’s remaining match of the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 season towards Belgium on Sunday.

“From facing a sting operation to standing on the Olympic podium — not once, but twice it’s been a path full of challenges, growth, and unforgettable pride,” Lalit posted.

“Becoming an Olympian from my city after 26 years is something I’ll always carry with honor and gratitude,” he added.

A pure play-maker with an uncanny knack for scoring targets, Lalit performed 183 matches for India on the senior stage, scoring 67 targets.

Over the years, he turned a trusted title in India’s ahead line, recognized for his versatility, on-field intelligence, and calm manner in high-pressure conditions.

The 31-year-old’s remaining look within the Indian jersey got here towards Australia on June 15.

Reflecting on Lalit’s contribution, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey mentioned, “Lalit has been one of the vital swish and devoted forwards of his technology. Whether it was an important Olympic match or a league recreation, he all the time wore the Indian jersey with pleasure and performed with coronary heart.

“His journey from the narrow lanes of Varanasi to standing on the Olympic podium twice is nothing short of inspirational. We thank him for his selfless service to Indian hockey and wish him the very best for the next phase of his life.”

Beyond the Olympics, Lalit was instrumental in India’s victories on the 2016 Asian Champions Trophy, 2017 Asia Cup the place he netted 4 targets and a number of different podium finishes. His medal-laden profession features a bronze on the 2017 Hockey World League Final 2017, silver on the 2018 Champions Trophy, bronze on the 2018 Asian Games, and gold on the 2018 Asian Champions Trophy.

He was additionally part of the squads that completed third within the FIH Pro League 2021-22 and received gold on the 2022 Asian Games.

In recognition of his contributions to Indian hockey, Lalit was honoured with the Arjuna Award in 2021.

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