Indian hockey star reflects on milestone year, eyes bigger goals ahead
Punjab Newsline,Sports :
Indian women’s hockey team forward Navneet Kaur has been honoured with the prestigious Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr. Award for Player of the Year (Women) at the Hockey India 8th Annual Awards 2025 held in New Delhi. The recognition caps off a remarkable year for the striker, who has emerged as one of India’s most reliable performers in attack.
Navneet played a crucial role in India’s impressive run at the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad, where the team secured a silver medal. She finished as the third-highest goal scorer with four goals and was named Player of the Tournament for her outstanding performances. Her consistency continued at the Women’s Asia Cup 2025, where she scored six goals and helped India clinch another silver medal.
The year also marked a major personal milestone for Navneet as she completed 200 international caps, highlighting her experience and longevity at the top level. Known for her sharp attacking instincts and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, she has become a key figure in India’s forward line.
Expressing her happiness after receiving the award, Navneet credited her teammates for the achievement, stating that their constant support and belief played a significant role in her success. She also appreciated Hockey India for providing a platform that motivates players across the country.
Looking ahead, Navneet is focused on upcoming major tournaments, including the Nations Cup, World Cup, and Asian Games. With preparations set to begin soon, she emphasized the need to improve as a team and raise performance levels. Determined to grow further, Navneet aims to deliver her best and contribute significantly to India’s success on the global stage.