Indian women’s hockey stalwart Savita Punia has laid down a bold challenge for herself and her team this year — win the gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games and in the process secure India’s direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
At 35 years old, the veteran goalkeeper — often called one of India’s finest custodians — admits she’s not looking too far ahead beyond the continental showpiece. “My next target for the whole year is very important.… We must win a gold medal at the Asian Games and directly qualify for the Olympics,” she told PTI. ( Source – rediff)
A Goal With Deep Meaning
For Savita, who has represented India in over 300 matches, the Asian Games are more than another tournament — they are possibly the final chapter of a glittering career. She said she wants to leave the game on a high note, ideally with gold and an Olympic berth sealed.
“I have started feeling that I want to spend more time with my family… Everyone is going to retire at some point, but I want to leave on a good note,” she shared.
Winning the Asian Games gold is crucial because it earns automatic Olympic qualification, bypassing the nerve-wracking global qualifiers later in 2027–28. Savita emphasized that such a result would ease pressure on the Indian camp and allow her teammates to compete without additional stress.
While the Los Angeles Olympics might seem far, she hasn’t completely ruled out being part of that journey — but for now, the focus is sharp and singular: Asian Games gold, direct qualification, and a fitting finales.
Expressing her gratitude for the support that keeps her going, she also mentioned that even her in-laws stand firmly behind her sporting goals, something she considers a blessing in her continuing journey.
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