Veteran Indian women’s hockey team forward, Vandana Katariya, has announced her retirement from international hockey at the age of 32, marking the end of a remarkable 15-year career. With 320 international appearances and 158 goals, Katariya leaves the sport as the most capped player in the history of Indian women’s hockey.
In a heartfelt message posted on Instagram, Katariya reflected on her decision to step away from international play, stating, “I’m stepping away not because the fire in me has dimmed, but because I want to bow out at the zenith of my career, while I’m still at my very best.” She emphasized that the decision was not out of exhaustion but a desire to retire on her own terms, while still performing at the highest level.
Katariya’s career has been defined by numerous milestones, including India’s historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she made history as the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick in the Games.
Making her senior debut in 2009, Katariya has been an integral part of India’s success in women’s hockey, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike. She made her final appearance for India during the FIH Pro League in Bhubaneswar in February 2025.
In her retirement note, she also paid tribute to her late father, who played a significant role in her journey, as well as to her teammates and coaches who shaped her career.
While she is retiring from international hockey, Katariya’s passion for the game remains strong, and she plans to continue playing in the Hockey India League and other platforms, promising that her love for the sport will never fade.
