Indian men’s team forward Gurjant Singh has announced his retirement from international hockey at the Hockey India Awards ceremony in New Delhi. The 31-year-old striker, with a career spanning nearly a decade, 130 international caps, and 33 goals, leaves behind a legacy as a key figure in India’s modern-day hockey revival.
Born on January 26, 1995, in Khailara, Amritsar, Gurjant rose through the junior ranks quickly, showcasing his pace and sharp instincts. He played a pivotal role in India’s Junior World Cup triumph in Lucknow in 2016. Gurjant made his senior international debut in 2017 and became a crucial member of the Indian attacking line.
Gurjant’s significant achievements include being part of the bronze medal-winning teams at both Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics. He also contributed to India’s gold at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, 2017 Asia Cup, and various Asian Champions Trophy victories. In 2021, he received the prestigious Arjuna Award for his sporting excellence.
Expressing his retirement, Gurjant stated, “It is with a mix of pride and deep emotion that I announce my retirement today. I feel incredibly satisfied to have been part of the historical revival of Indian hockey and to have achieved two Olympic medals.” Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey praised Gurjant’s contributions, highlighting his pace, energy, and ability to score in crucial moments.
Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh acknowledged Gurjant’s inspirational journey from Punjab’s fields to Olympic podiums. Gurjant, leaving behind a remarkable legacy, departs the international stage with two Olympic bronze medals, an Asian Games gold, and a revered position among India’s top modern-day forwards.
