'Legend, role model': Sportspersons condole demise of Balbir Singh Senior

Sports personalities thronged to social media to pay their last respects to hockey legend Balbir Singh Senior, who passed away aged 96 at a private hospital in Chandigarh on Monday.

Balbir was undergoing treatment at Fortis Mohali and was in a 'semi-comatose condition'. He was hospitalised on May 8 with high fever and breathing trouble. But, his COVID-19 test had come negative.

India cricket captain Virat Kohli expressed his grief on the passing of the legend and wrote on his Twitter handle: "Saddened to hear about the passing of the legend, Balbir Singh Senior. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in this time of sorrow."

Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra referred to Balbir as a role model and tweeted: "Saddened to hear of the demise of one of India's most celebrated Olympians, Balbir Singh Sr. Athletes and role models like him come very rarely, and it was an honour to know him, and I hope his example will continue to inspire athletes from around the world."

India hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh also took to social media to condole the demise of the legend and said: "I was shocked to hear the news of legendary Olympian Balbir Singh Sr untimely demise. My heartfelt condolences to his family. I pray the almighty gives his family strength to withstand this tragic moment. May his soul rest in peace."

Legendary runner PT Usha wrote on her Twitter handle: "Deeply saddened to hear the passing of Balbir Singh Sr ji. An athlete par excellence and a role model beyond words. His bestowed hands may strengthen my passions more. My condolences to his family, friends and fans."

Indian cricket team head coach Ravi Shastri also paid his last respects and wrote on his Twitter handle: "Balbir Singh ji - A true giant and a half in his field. Hockey legend out and out. Condolences."

Balbir Senior was the most decorated athlete in Indian sports history with Olympic medals in 1948, 1952 and 1956 Summer Games. He coached the Indian team which won the bronze medal at the 1971 World Cup and was manager of the Indian team that won the gold medal at the 1975 World Cup.