Hockey legend Vandana Katariya announces international retirement: 'I want to bow out at zenith of my career'

Vandana Katariya, one of India’s most iconic women’s hockey players, has announced her retirement from international hockey, ending a 15-year career at the zenith of her success.

At 32, Vandana leaves behind an illustrious legacy, with 320 international appearances and 158 goals, making her the most-capped player in the history of Indian women’s hockey.

In an emotional Instagram post, Vandana wrote: “Today, with a heavy yet grateful heart, I announce my retirement from international hockey. I’m stepping away not because the fire in me has dimmed or the hockey in my tank has run dry, but because I want to bow out at the zenith of my career, while I’m still at my very best.”

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Her decision to retire is a conscious one: “This isn’t a goodbye born out of exhaustion; it’s a choice to leave the international stage on my terms, with my head held high and my stick still blazing.”

Vandana expressed gratitude to those who supported her, including teammates and mentors. She also paid tribute to her late father:

“To my late father — my rock, my guiding light — without you, this dream would have remained out of reach.”

Though she’s retiring from international competition, Vandana is not stepping away from the sport.

“I’m not hanging up my stick; I’ll keep playing, keep scoring, and keep inspiring in the Hockey India League and beyond.”

Her passion for the game remains strong, and she plans to continue making her mark on the turf.

“Today, I retire from international hockey, but I carry forward every memory, every lesson, and every ounce of love you’ve given me. Thank you for being my family, my fuel, and my forever teammates in spirit,” Vandana concluded.