New Delhi, April 1 — Vandana Katariya, India’s most-capped woman hockey player, has announced her retirement from international hockey, closing the chapter on a remarkable 15-year career. The veteran striker, who played 320 international matches and netted 158 goals, chose to step away while still at the top of her game, calling the decision “bittersweet and empowering.”
Reflecting on the Tokyo Games, she said:
A Glorious Journey Comes to an End
In an emotional Instagram post, the 32-year-old shared her thoughts on leaving the international stage:Katariya emphasized that her retirement was not due to exhaustion or lack of passion, but a conscious decision to exit on her own terms.“Today, with a heavy yet grateful heart, I announce my retirement from international hockey — a decision that feels both bittersweet and empowering.”
“I'm not stepping away because the fire in me has dimmed… but because I want to bow out at my zenith.”
A Legacy of Milestones
Since her senior debut in 2009, Vandana Katariya has been a pivotal figure in Indian hockey. One of her most iconic moments came during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she became the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick in Olympic history — a feat that underscored India’s historic fourth-place finish.Reflecting on the Tokyo Games, she said:
Katariya also represented India at the 2016 Rio Olympics and was instrumental in several major victories and podium finishes across her career.“I still get goosebumps thinking about Tokyo… it was about proving that we belonged on that stage.”
Continued Passion for the Game
While stepping back from international duties, Katariya made it clear that her love for hockey remains undiminished.Her decision ensures that her presence will still be felt on the turf, as she continues to play at the domestic level.“I'm not hanging up my stick… I'll keep playing, keep scoring, and keep inspiring in the Hockey India League and beyond.”
Tributes Pour In
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey praised Katariya’s unmatched contribution:Her accolades include the Padma Shri and Arjuna Award, and her trophy cabinet boasts gold medals from the 2016 and 2023 Women’s Asian Champions Trophy and the 2022 FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup. She also played crucial roles in India’s silver and bronze medal finishes at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and FIH Pro League.“Vandana was not just a goal scorer; she was the heartbeat of the Indian attack… a leader by example. She has set a benchmark for future generations.”
A Grateful Farewell
In her parting message, Katariya expressed heartfelt gratitude to teammates, coaches, and fans, while paying an emotional tribute to her late father:Hailing from Roshnabad, Haridwar, Vandana Katariya played her final match for India during the FIH Pro League in Bhubaneswar this February. Though her international career ends, her legacy continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.“To my late father — my rock, my guiding light — without you, this dream would have remained out of reach.”
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