New Delhi: Former India captain Rani Rampal on Friday expressed support for the current women’s hockey team, emphasizing that the focus should be on progress as much as on medals. Speaking at the Playcom Business of Sports Summit, Rampal highlighted the challenges of a transition phase and called for greater attention to grassroots development.
“Transition phases are always challenging, and we often talk only about medals, not progress. We need to focus more on developing talent at the grassroots level,” Rampal said. She expressed hope that the team would win the ongoing Asia Cup in China and secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup. “Consistent performance is the most important thing,” she added.
Rampal reflected on the team’s remarkable performance at the Tokyo Olympics 2021, where India, after losing the first three matches, bounced back to defeat Australia in the quarterfinals. “After losing our first three games, everyone lost hope. But we believed, won the next two, and then defeated Australia. The whole country was watching hockey—that was the real change,” she recalled.
She also voiced concerns over cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, noting it may make it harder for athletes from other sports to attract sponsors. “It will now become more difficult for athletes to attract sponsorships since cricket will be in the Olympics. But I firmly believe our fans will continue supporting non-cricket sports,” she said.
Rampal’s remarks came alongside insights from other Indian athletes. Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu stressed that medals remain the ultimate motivation. “Reaching the Olympics is never easy. Every time we win, we immediately plan the next step and set new targets. That keeps us moving forward,” she said.
Paralympic champion Sumit Antil highlighted the motivational impact of recognition from fans and government. “Meeting the Prime Minister itself is a huge boost of motivation,” he said, noting the importance of continued support for athletes.
