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LA Olympics Qualification Trumped 44-Year Asian Games Gold Wait: Savita Punia
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News18•03-10-2026, 10:15
LA Olympics Qualification Trumped 44-Year Asian Games Gold Wait: Savita Punia
- •India's women's hockey team secured direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics by winning the Asian Games gold, ending a 44-year drought.
- •Goalkeeper Savita Punia emphasized that direct Olympic qualification was the primary goal, allowing nearly two years for preparation without qualification pressure.
- •The team's transformation over the last 10 months, under a new coaching setup, focused on unity, belief, and a clear purpose.
- •Savita credited head coach Sjoerd Marijne for his faith in her, even after she left the camp for personal reasons, and highlighted the strong bond with fellow goalkeeper Bichu Devi.
- •The team's improved mindset and tactical advancements were evident in their World Cup performance and qualification for the Pro League, reinforcing their capabilities.
Key Questions Answered
According to veteran goalkeeper Savita, the team's overriding objective was securing direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics rather than just ending their 44-year gold medal drought at the Asian Games.
India secured a 1-0 victory over defending champions and Olympic silver medallists China in the final to claim the historic gold medal.
Savita singled out head of athletic performance Wayne Lombard for helping her with rehabilitation and recovery following her ankle injury.
