Veteran Goalkeeper Focused on One Final Mission Before Retirement
Former Indian women’s hockey captain and veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia has made her priorities clear as she enters the final phase of her illustrious career. Rather than looking too far ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the 35-year-old is fully focused on helping India secure direct Olympic qualification by winning gold at the Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4.
Savita believes that qualifying for the Olympics through the Asian Games would not only be the most rewarding way to continue her journey but could also mark the perfect moment to step away from international hockey on a high note.
“Asian Games Is My Only Target Right Now”
Speaking in an interview with PTI, Savita emphasized that her current mindset is rooted in the immediate challenge ahead rather than long-term plans.
“LA 2028 is quite far away for me. I cannot say much about it right now. I have set my own target for the Asian Games, and I am not looking beyond that at the moment,” she said.
For Savita, the Asian Games represent more than just another tournament. Winning gold would guarantee India a direct berth at the Los Angeles Olympics, removing the pressure and uncertainty of qualification tournaments.
“If we win at the Asian Games and get the Olympic spot, I will think about retiring. That would be the best possible ending for me,” she added.
A Career Filled With Experience and Achievements
Savita Punia is one of the most experienced players in Indian women’s hockey. A former national captain, she has been the backbone of India’s defence for years and remains one of the most reliable goalkeepers in international hockey.
Her achievements include:
- Bronze medal at the 2002 Commonwealth Games
- Three-time medalist at the Asian Games
- Leadership roles during India’s rise on the global stage
Now, she hopes to add Asian Games gold to her list before calling time on her playing career.
Retirement on Her Terms
Savita openly acknowledged that thoughts of retirement have begun to surface, driven by a desire to spend more time with her family. However, she remains deeply committed to the team’s goals.
“I have started to feel the urge to be more with my family. Everybody retires one day. Whenever that time comes for me, I want it to be on a positive note,” she said.
Whether that positive ending comes at the Asian Games or extends all the way to LA 2028 is still uncertain, but Savita is clear that she wants to leave the team in a strong position.
“If everything goes as planned, I will be satisfied knowing that the team is going to LA and the players won’t have to worry about qualifiers anymore,” she explained.
Leading by Example as a Senior Player
Currently representing Soorma Hockey Club in the Women’s Hockey India League and supported by JSW Sports, Savita sees her role as more than just stopping goals. As a senior player, she believes motivating younger teammates is equally important.
“As a senior member of the squad, I will not let a single opportunity slip away. I am always there to motivate my teammates,” she said.
She also highlighted the mental and physical pressure that comes with Olympic qualifiers and believes direct qualification would allow the team to play with greater freedom.
Key Tournaments Before the Asian Games
Before the Asian Games, India has several important tournaments lined up. Savita pointed out that the FIH World Cup Qualifiers, scheduled to be held in Hyderabad in March, will be crucial following India’s runner-up finish at the Asia Cup.
“The World Cup qualifier comes first and it is very important for the whole team. After that, we have the Nations Cup, and qualifying for the FIH World Cup will give us the best chance to show our strongest game,” she said.
According to Savita, the entire year ahead will play a decisive role in shaping the team’s future.
Age Is Just a Number for the Veteran Goalkeeper
Despite being 35, Savita remains confident about her physical condition and dismisses age as a limiting factor.
“Whenever foreign players ask me about my age, they cannot believe I am 35. My body is very cooperative with my game, and I enjoy keeping fit,” she said.
She believes that fitness, agility, and quick reflexes matter far more than age, especially for a goalkeeper.
“If you keep fit, you can play at 30, 35, or even 40. Age should never be a reason to stop playing,” Savita added.
Strong Family Support Keeps Her Going
Savita also credited her family for playing a vital role in her continued success. Married for three years, she said the support from both her own family and her in-laws has helped her sustain her career.
“My wife’s parents also cheer for me. Without their support, I wouldn’t be able to continue playing,” she said.
One Final Dream
While Savita Punia has not completely ruled out being part of the LA 2028 Olympics, her focus remains firmly on the present. For now, her mission is clear: win Asian Games gold, secure Olympic qualification, and give Indian women’s hockey a pressure-free path to the biggest stage in world sport.
Whether or not she eventually dons the India jersey in Los Angeles, Savita’s determination and leadership continue to inspire the next generation.