The only other time more than one sportsperson was bestowed the award was in 2002-03 when shooter Anjali Vedpathak and athlete K.M. Beenamol shared it.

Wrestler Sushil Kumar, who also won an Olympic bronze at the Beijing Games, and four-time world champion women's boxer M.C. Marykom are the other Khel Ratna recipients this year.

'I am happy that all three of us have been given the award. It is great that Sushil will also get the award. He is my friend and we two have shared so many memories after winning the Olympic medal.'

'It is also a big achievement for boxing in the country. Youngsters are taking to the boxing and it will be a huge boost the sport,' Vijender added.

Despite winning medals at the Beijing Games, Vijender and Sushil were overlooked for the Padma awards.

'I do not want to reflect in the past. I am thankful to the media that they raised our issue and thanks to the sports ministry for recognising our performance,' he said.