Two-Time Olympic Medallist Lalit Upadhyay Retires from Hockey
Indian hockey has bid farewell to one of its most resilient and dependable forwards, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, who announced his retirement from the international stage on Sunday. The two-time Olympic bronze medallist brought his decorated, decade-long career to a close shortly after India’s final FIH Pro League match, leaving behind a legacy of skill, perseverance, and national pride.
Hailing from Varanasi, Upadhyay's journey to the pinnacle of world hockey was one of remarkable determination. He earned more than 179 caps for India and scored over 40 goals, becoming a vital part of the team's attack. His career was defined by slick stick-work and a creative presence on the field, contributing to historic Olympic bronze medal wins at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Games.
However, his path was fraught with significant challenges. As a teenager in 2008, Upadhyay was caught in a controversial sting operation that, despite his later exoneration, saw him dropped from the national program. The setback nearly ended his career before it truly began. With the crucial support of mentors like former captain Dhanraj Pillay, he fought his way back, securing a spot with Air India and eventually returning to the national team in 2014.
From that point on, Upadhyay became a cornerstone of India's success, helping the team secure gold medals at the Asian Champions Trophies in 2016 and 2018, and the 2017 Asia Cup. "This journey began in a small village, with limited resources but limitless dreams," he wrote in an emotional farewell message. "To represent our country has been the greatest honour and pride of my life."
In his farewell note, Upadhyay expressed deep gratitude to the coaches, teammates, and organizations that supported him through the highs and lows. His retirement marks the end of an era for a player who not only achieved Olympic glory twice but also embodied the spirit of overcoming adversity to represent his country with distinction.
