Savita Punia eyes Olympic medal after historic Asian Games gold
Indian hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia is targeting a medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics following a historic gold win at the Asian Games. After contemplating retirement, she has recommitted to the sport under a new coaching setup.
Why it matters
The success of the Indian women's hockey team reflects the growing competitiveness and professionalization of Indian sports on the global stage.
Savita Punia eyes Olympic medal after historic Asian Games gold left Indian women goalkeeper Savita Punia. FIle PTI PTI https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/d9x160/article71591635.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/PTI09_04_2026_000294A.jpg SHAILENDRA BHOJAK Bengaluru: Indian women hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia speaks with the media during an interactive session ahead of Asian Games 2026, at Sports Authority of India (SAI) in Bengaluru, Karnataka, Friday, Sept. 4, 2026. (PTI Photo/Shailendra Bhojak)(PTI09_04_2026_000294A) Savita made a crucial save from a penalty stroke against China in the final to help India win a historic gold medal in women's hockey at the Asian Games after 44 years New Delhi Veteran Indian women's hockey team goalkeeper Savita Punia contemplated retirement last year, but the new coaching setup under Sjoerd Marijne rekindled her passion for the game. Following a remarkable turnaround this season, she now believes that an elusive Olympic medal is within India's reach at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
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