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Savita Punia wanted to quit hockey, now eyes Olympic glory
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News18•16-10-2026, 13:44
Savita Punia wanted to quit hockey, now eyes Olympic glory
- •Experienced goalkeeper Savita Punia had decided to quit hockey last year due to challenging circumstances.
- •Following historic performances, including gold at the Asian Games after 44 years, India qualified for the Los Angeles Olympics 2028.
- •Savita played a pivotal role by saving a crucial penalty stroke against China in the Asian Games final.
- •With support from Hockey India and coach Sjoerd Marijne, she reversed her retirement decision and returned to the pitch.
- •After retirement, Savita plans to open a specialized goalkeeping academy to train future talents for Indian hockey.
Key Questions Answered
Troubled by circumstances, experienced goalkeeper Savita Punia emailed Hockey India last year stating she no longer wanted to play and even went home. However, the federation stopped her, and following the return of coach Sjoerd Marijne, she felt inspired to continue playing and now aims for an Olympic medal.
The Indian women's hockey team secured qualification for the Los Angeles Olympics 2028 by winning the gold medal at the Asian Games after a 44-year wait.
Savita Punia has ruled out entering politics after her retirement and instead plans to open a specialized goalkeeping academy. She aims to address the lack of attention given to goalkeepers at the domestic level and provide skilled goalkeepers to Indian hockey.
