Indian hockey forward Lalit Upadhyay announced his retirement from international play on Sunday, bringing the curtain down on a decorated career that spanned a decade and saw him become a double Olympic medallist. The 31-year-old made the announcement shortly after India wrapped up its FIH Pro League season with a 4-3 victory over Belgium.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Lalit wrote, “Today, I announce my retirement from international hockey. It’s a tough moment, but one every athlete must face one day. It has been the greatest honour and pride of my life to represent our country. Thank you for everything.”
Born in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Lalit made his international debut in 2014 and quickly emerged as a crucial part of India’s attacking setup. His crowning moment came at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where he played a key role in helping India end a 41-year Olympic medal drought with a historic bronze. He followed that feat with another bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, making him one of the few Indian hockey players to earn back-to-back Olympic medals in the modern era.
Over his career, Lalit donned the national jersey 179 times, netting 41 goals. Known for his agility, tactical intelligence, and relentless work ethic, he was a consistent performer in crucial games, often stepping up under pressure to support India’s forward line.
His retirement marks the end of a golden phase for Indian hockey, as he was part of a generation that revitalized the nation’s presence on the global stage. With notable achievements in both Olympic and league formats, Lalit leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience and results.
As Indian hockey turns to its next chapter, Lalit’s contributions will remain a benchmark for future players. His journey from Varanasi to the Olympic podium stands as an inspiring story of dedication and passion in Indian sport.
