New Delhi, April 1 || Indian women’s hockey stalwart Vandana Katariya has officially announced her retirement from international hockey, bringing an end to an extraordinary career that spanned over 15 years.
With 320 international appearances and 158 goals to her name, Vandana leaves as the most capped player in the history of Indian women’s hockey. But beyond the numbers, she leaves behind an inspiring legacy—a tale of resilience, quiet determination, and a relentless hunger to push Indian women’s hockey 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 she is experiencing.
“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.”