PRAYAGRAJ, June 24 -- From the shadows of an unwarranted TV sting operation, winning back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics to now bringing the curtains down on his illustrious career, Indian forward Lalit Upadhyay wants to take up the mantle of a coach. "After retirement, I'd like to give back to the sport through coaching. I will be looking for a coaching opportunity in future," Upadhyay told HT from Belgium on Monday after India's last FIH Pro League 2024-25 match against Belgium on Sunday. "A lot of things were going in my mind, and I decided to quit after India's last game here, but I would continue to play for my state, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh Police, wherein I am posted as a DSP," added Upadhyay. Upadhyay, who's only the third athlete from Uttar Pradesh to win double Olympic medals after legends Major Dhyan Chand and Kunwar Digvijay Singh Babu, said now he would get to experience the game with a different perspective. From Varanasi, Upadhyay, who retired after a decade-long journey that saw him become a part of the teams that won bronze in the Tokyo (2020) and Paris (2024) Games, also said if her daughter Gauranavi wished to play hockey in future that he would support her. "I will like to see my daughter playing for India in future, but only if she wishes to." Upadhyay remained an important part of the Indian squad that scripted history, and reinforced his reputation as a big-match player. "My journey began in a small village with limited resources but limitless dreams," Lalit announced his decision through a heartfelt social media post shortly after India's final match of the European leg on Sunday. "From facing a sting operation (which happened to him when he was 17) to standing on the Olympic podium - not once, but twice -- it's been a path full of challenges, growth, and unforgettable pride," Lalit wrote on social media. "Becoming an Olympian from my city after 26 years is something I'll always carry with honor and gratitude," he added. A natural play-maker with an uncanny knack for scoring goals, Lalit played 183 matches for India at the senior level, scoring 67 goals. Over the years, he became a trusted name in India's forward line, known for his versatility, on-field intelligence, and calm demeanour in high-pressure situations. The 31-year-old's final appearance in the Indian jersey came against Australia on June 15. Lalit was also a part of the squads that finished third in the FIH Pro League 2021-22 and won gold at the 2022 Asian Games. In recognition of his contributions to Indian hockey, Lalit was honoured with the Arjuna Award in 2021....