Indian women’s hockey legend Vandana Katariya announces international retirement

With 320 International caps and 158 goals, Vandana brings to an end a 15-year career which included many highs with the Indian team including a historic fourth-place finish at Tokyo Games.

Indian hockey legend Vandana Katariya announced her retirement on Tuesday. (Hockey India)

Vandana announced her retirement on Tuesday. (Hockey India)

India’s women hockey stalwart Vandana Katariya has brought an end to her international career which spanned over 15 years. With 320 international caps and 158 goals to her name, Vandana leaves as the most capped Indian women’s player. And beyond the numbers, she leaves behind an inspiring legacy, a story of resilience, determination and relentless hunger to push Indian team to greater heights.

The 32-year-old forward, who made her senior team debut in 2009, was an integral part of some of the most defining moments in the sport, including India’s 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, who played her last match for India during the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 in February, shared the mix of emotions. “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. But every journey has its course, and I leave 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. “I 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.”