Veteran India Hockey Goalkeeper and former Captain Savita Punia has announced her mission to win gold at the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan, scheduled from September 19 to October 4, 2026. The 35-year-old, a three-time Asian Games medallist, sees this as a crucial step to help India qualify directly for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Speaking about her focus, Punia said she is keeping her eyes on the immediate goal rather than looking too far ahead to LA 2028. “I have set my target for the Asian Games first. If we win and qualify for the Olympics, it will be a perfect high note to conclude my career,” she said, reflecting on her long journey that began with a 2002 Commonwealth Games bronze medal.
Punia, who currently represents Soorma Hockey Club in the ongoing Women’s Hockey India League and is backed by JSW Sports, emphasized her commitment to motivating her teammates as a senior member. “Our team has the capacity to win gold. Personally, I will give my heart and soul and leave no stone unturned both as a player and a leader,” she said.
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The goalkeeper highlighted the significance of upcoming tournaments this year, including the FIH World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad and the Nations Cup. After India missed direct qualification to next year’s World Cup via the Asia Cup, Punia said the qualifiers offer a critical opportunity to showcase the team’s best performance and prepare for bigger challenges ahead.
Despite contemplating retirement after the Asian Games, Punia has not ruled out being part of the LA 2028 squad. “Age is just a number. At 35, my body and fitness are supportive, and my focus remains on agility and footwork. As long as I am fit, I can compete at the highest level,” she said, underlining her dedication to maintaining peak performance.
With a career spanning over two decades, Savita Punia remains a vital force for Indian women’s hockey. Her leadership, experience, and ambition to leave the sport on a high are expected to inspire younger players as they chase medals and Olympic dreams.
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