The Final Whistle: Indian Hockey's Most Decorated Player Retires With An Illustrious Career
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian women's hockey team's most-capped player, Vandana Katariya, has announced her retirement from international hockey, bringing an end to her illustrious 15-year career. The 32-year-old veteran striker made the announcement on social media, stating that she has decided to "bow out at her zenith" while still at the top of her game. Katariya, who represented India in 320 international matches, scoring 158 goals, expressed her gratitude to her teammates, coaches, and mentors, who have supported her throughout her journey. She also paid a heartfelt tribute to her late father, who she credited as her guiding light and rock.
The veteran forward played a crucial role in defining moments for Indian hockey, including the historic fourth-place finish at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. She became the first and only Indian woman to score a hat-trick at the Tokyo Games, which she described as one of the most emotional games of her life. Katariya's impact on Indian hockey has been immense, earning her the prestigious Padma Shri and Arjuna Awards. She played a pivotal role in securing gold medals at the 2016 and 2023 Women's Asian Champions Trophy and the FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup in 2022. She was also part of the silver-winning squads at the 2018 Asian Games and the 2013 and 2018 Asian Champions Trophy. While Katariya has retired from international hockey, she will continue to play in the women's Hockey India League. She concluded her emotional announcement by thanking her fans and well-wishers, saying that she will carry forward every memory, every lesson, and every ounce of love that she has received throughout her career.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey praised Katariya as the "heartbeat of India's attack," describing her as a tireless worker and a leader by example. He credited her contributions as instrumental in the team's rise on the global stage, setting a benchmark for future generations. Katariya's last match for India was during the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League in February. As she bids adieu to international hockey, she leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of hockey players in India.
