India's Most-Capped Woman Hockey Player Steps Down at Her Peak, Continues Domestic League
Veteran Indian hockey star Vandana Katariya, the most-capped woman player in Indian hockey history, announced her retirement from international hockey on Tuesday, marking the end of an extraordinary 15-year journey. Katariya described the decision, made at the peak of her career, as "bittersweet and empowering."A Legacy of Excellence and Records
Katariya, 32, leaves behind an impressive record, having represented India in 320 international matches and scoring 158 goals. Her decorated career includes a historic performance at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she became the first Indian woman hockey player to score a hat-trick at an Olympic event.Reflecting on her memorable achievements, Katariya expressed deep gratitude and pride, recalling the emotional intensity of India's iconic Tokyo Games match against South Africa.
"I still get goosebumps thinking about Tokyo," Katariya shared. "The hat-trick was special, but more than that, it was about proving that we belonged on that stage."
Choosing to Exit at the Pinnacle
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Katariya clarified that her retirement was not due to exhaustion but rather a conscious choice to step down while still at her best."I'm not stepping away because the fire in me has dimmed or the hockey in my tank has run dry, but because I want to bow out at my zenith," she wrote. "It's a choice to leave the international stage on my terms, with my head held high and my stick still blazing."
Continuing Her Hockey Journey Domestically
While she retires from international matches, Katariya will continue to dazzle audiences in domestic tournaments, including the women's Hockey India League."I'm not hanging up my stick," she affirmed. "I'll keep playing, keep scoring, and keep inspiring in the Hockey India League and beyond."
Tributes from the Hockey Community
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey paid tribute to Katariya, calling her the "heartbeat of the Indian attack.""Vandana was not just a goal scorer; she was a tireless worker and a leader by example," said Tirkey. "Her contributions have been instrumental in the team's rise on the global stage."
A Career Decorated with Prestigious Honors
Katariya’s outstanding contributions to Indian hockey were recognized with the prestigious Padma Shri and Arjuna Awards. She played critical roles in securing gold medals for India at the Women's Asian Champions Trophy in 2016 and 2023, as well as the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup in 2022.Her impressive medal tally also includes silver medals at the 2018 Asian Games and the Asian Champions Trophy editions of 2013 and 2018. Additionally, she secured bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games 2022, Asian Games (2014, 2022), and the FIH Pro League 2021-22.
Emotional Farewell and Gratitude
Katariya thanked her teammates, coaches, mentors, and family for their unwavering support."To my teammates, my sisters-in-arms, your camaraderie and trust have fueled my spirit. To my coaches and mentors, your wisdom and faith in me have shaped my path," she wrote.
In a touching tribute to her late father, she added, "Without you, this dream would have remained out of reach. Your sacrifices and love have been my foundation."
Katariya, who hails from Roshnabad, Haridwar, last represented India during the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League in February.
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