Rajgir : Indian men’s hockey team midfielder Manpreet Singh dedicated the team’s Asia Cup 2025 victory to the people of Punjab, who are battling severe floods across the state.
India clinched the continental title for the fourth time, defeating South Korea 4-1 in the final in Rajgir on Sunday.
The floods have displaced more than 3 lakh people and affected over 20 lakh residents across 2,050 villages in all 23 flood-hit districts. The disaster has severely impacted the state’s economy, with 176,980.05 hectares of crop area damaged. Tragically, 48 people have lost their lives so far.
“I would like to dedicate this victory to the people of Punjab who are enduring the devastating floods with unimaginable strength and resilience. This triumph is for every victim fighting to rebuild their life, and for the selfless volunteers working day and night to rescue, support, and rehabilitate those in need. Your spirit is our true inspiration, and this win is a tribute to the courage of Punjab,” said Manpreet Singh, the former India captain.
The win not only crowns India as the top team in Asia but also secures a direct qualification for next year’s FIH World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. This marks India’s fourth Asia Cup title, adding to victories in 2003, 2007, and 2017. South Korea remains the competition’s most successful team with five titles (1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, and 2022).
India maintained an unbeaten record throughout the tournament, including five wins and a draw. Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Singh, the team dominated the pool stage with three consecutive wins. In the Super 4s, India secured emphatic victories over Malaysia (4-1) and China (7-0), followed by a 2-2 draw against South Korea before defeating the same opponent in the final.
The victory showcases India’s dominance in Asian hockey and highlights the team’s unity and determination, even as Manpreet Singh and his teammates acknowledge the hardships faced by the people of Punjab.
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