Indian women바카라s hockey stalwart Vandana Katariya has officially announced her retirement from international hockey, closing the chapter on a remarkable career spanning over 15 years. (More Hockey News)
With 320 international appearances and 158 goals, she departs as the most capped player in Indian women바카라s hockey history. More than just records, Vandana leaves behind a legacy of resilience, quiet determination, and an unwavering drive to elevate Indian women바카라s hockey on the global stage.
The 32-year-old forward, who made her senior team debut in 2009, played a crucial role in some of India바카라s most defining hockey moments. She was instrumental in the team바카라s historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she became the first and only Indian woman to score a hat-trick at the Games.
Announcing her retirement, Vandana Katariya, who played her final match for India during the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 in February, expressed the mix of emotions she feels. "This decision wasn't easy, but I know it's the right time. Hockey has been my life for as long as I can remember, and wearing the Indian jersey was the greatest honour."
"Every journey has its course, and I step away with immense pride, gratitude, and love for the sport. Indian hockey is in great hands, and I will always be its biggest supporter."
She extended her heartfelt appreciation to everyone who played a role in her journey. 바카라I want to thank my coaches, teammates, support staff, Hockey India, my family, and all the fans who have supported me over the years. Every cheer, every message, every word of encouragement meant the world to me.바카라
Vandana Katariya's Hockey Journey
Hailing from Roshnabad, Haridwar, Katariya's journey began on dusty fields, driven by a dream that surpassed her surroundings. Over the years, she not only became a cornerstone of India's hockey legacy but also witnessed and contributed to the rise of Indian women바카라s hockey.
She represented the country at two Olympic Games (2016, 2020), two FIH Hockey Women바카라s World Cups (2018, 2022), three Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, 2022), and three Asian Games (2014, 2018, 2022).
Katariya's impact on the sport was immense, playing a pivotal role in India바카라s rise on the global stage. She contributed to Gold medals at the Women바카라s Asian Champions Trophy (2016, 2023) and the FIH Hockey Women바카라s Nations Cup (2022), as well as Silver medals at the 2018 Asian Games and other major tournaments.
She was also part of the Bronze-winning squad at the 2013 Junior World Cup and represented Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers in the inaugural Women바카라s Hockey India League in 2025.
Katariya's heroics at the Tokyo Olympics will forever stand as one of her most memorable achievements. Her remarkable hat-trick in a crucial 4-3 victory over South Africa helped India reach the quarterfinals, securing the nation바카라s best-ever finish at the Games, fourth place.
Reflecting on that unforgettable moment, Katariya shared, 바카라I still get goosebumps thinking about Tokyo. The Olympics are special, and that match against South Africa was one of the most emotional games of my life. I just wanted to give everything for my team, for my country. The hat-trick was special, but more than that, it was about proving that we belonged on that stage.바카라
Vandana Katariya's Awards And Achievements
Vandana, the heartbeat of the Indian attack, was honoured with some of India바카라s most prestigious awards -
Arjuna Award (2021)
Padma Shri (2022)
Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr. Award for Player of the Year (Women) (2014)
Hockey India Presidents Award for Outstanding Achievement (2021)
Hockey India Dhanraj Pillay Award for Forward of the Year (2021 & 2022)
