Indian women's hockey team forward, Deepika, has been nominated for the Poligras Magic Skill Award for an exceptional solo field goal she scored against the Netherlands during the 2024-25 FIH Hockey Pro League season. The goal, which has been described as "incredible" and "remarkable," occurred during the Bhubaneswar leg of the Pro League in February 2025.
Deepika's outstanding play happened in the 35th minute of the match at the Kalinga Stadium, where India and the Netherlands battled to a 2-2 draw. India ultimately won the game in a shootout. During the play, Deepika dribbled down the left flank, skillfully maneuvering past the Dutch defense. She kissed the baseline, dinked the ball over a defender's stick, and finished the move with a strike that landed past the keeper and into the net.
The nominations for the Poligras Magic Skill Award were released on Friday, July 4, 2025. Hockey fans around the world have until July 14 to cast their votes for who they believe had the best moment and goal of the season. The winner of the Poligras Magic Skill Award will be determined by these votes.
Deepika, 21, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the nomination. She stated that the goal against the Netherlands was one of the most special moments of her career and that everything simply clicked in that instant. She also acknowledged that it helped the team equalize and eventually win the game in the shootout. Deepika conveyed her gratitude for the support of her fans, stating that such moments are what athletes train for and that the votes and support motivate her to keep pushing her limits and give her all for India.
Besides Deepika, Patricia Alvarez of Spain has also been nominated for her impressive 3D skills against Australia. Additionally, a remarkable team goal by the Australian women's team against England is also in contention for the award.
This nomination adds to the ongoing recognition of Indian sports on the global stage. India is also preparing a strategic bid to host both the 2029 and 2031 World Athletics Championships. The World Athletics, which is the sport's governing body, is expected to announce the hosts for both editions in September 2026. The deadline for member countries to express their interest is October 1, 2025.
