Indian Hockey star Hardik Singh nominated for FIH Player of Year Award 2023; says 'honoured and amazed'
PTC Web Desk: India's hockey mid-fielder Hardik Singh shared his sentiments upon receiving a nomination for the FIH Player of the Year Award 2023, marking this year as particularly significant for him.
Reflecting on a year filled with highs and lows, Hardik Singh, a pivotal figure in the Indian Men's Hockey Team, experienced a roller coaster journey in 2023. Sidelined due to an injury during the FIH Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup 2023 Bhubaneswar-Rourkela, his determination shone brightly as he clinched the Asian Games Gold. This nomination for the FIH Player of the Year Award 2023 adds another layer of distinction to his remarkable year.
Expressing his gratitude, Hardik Singh shared, "Being nominated for the FIH Player of the Year Award 2023 is truly an honour. International recognition of this magnitude is a dream for any sportsperson. It serves as motivation to continuously improve."
However, amidst his elation, Hardik acknowledged that this year wasn't his pinnacle performance, especially due to the heartbreak of the World Cup injury. Yet, he found contentment in achievements like India's success in the FIH Pro League campaign, triumph at the Asian Champions Trophy, and securing the Gold medal at the Asian Games.
Renowned for his midfield prowess and pivotal contributions to the Indian team, the 25-year-old's notable performances included scoring crucial goals. He notably served as the deputy to Harmanpreet Singh during the Asian Champions Trophy 2023 and the Asian Games 2023, both events where India clinched Gold medals.
Discussing his leadership role, Hardik emphasised his readiness for the responsibility, attributing his leadership qualities to learning from seasoned players like Sardar Singh, PR Sreejesh, Manpreet Singh, and Harmanpreet Singh. He expressed his affinity for shouldering responsibilities, seeing it as an opportunity to perform at his best and inspire his teammates to excel on the field.
- ANI
