Indian hockey stalwart Rani Rampal, who led the national women’s team to unprecedented heights, has announced her retirement after a glorious 15-year career.
In an emotional statement, the former captain expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent the nation, signaling the end of her on-field journey but vowing to remain connected with the sport in new capacities.
Rani, known for her resilience and skill, said, “After 15 years of wearing the Indian jersey with pride, it’s time for me to step off the field as a player and begin a new chapter. Hockey has been my passion, my life, and the greatest honor I could ever have asked for. From small beginnings to representing India on the biggest stages, this journey has been nothing short of incredible.”
The 29-year-old athlete, who hails from small town Shahbad of Haryana, has been a cornerstone of Indian women’s hockey, making history as the youngest player to debut at the age of 14 and later leading India to its best-ever fourth-place finish at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. In her farewell message, Rani expressed heartfelt appreciation for her teammates, coaches, and fans. “I’m forever grateful to my teammates, coaches, and every single fan who supported me along the way. Though I won’t be playing anymore, my love for the game continues. I look forward to new roles and giving back to the sport that has given me so much,” she said.
Rani also acknowledged the institutions that supported her throughout her career. “Thank you, Hockey India, MYAS (Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports), SAI (Sports Authority of India), Haryana Government, my long-term sponsors, and IOS Sports for believing in me. The journey may have changed, but the mission remains the same: to serve Indian hockey with all my heart,” she added.
A recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri and Khel Ratna awards, Rani Rampal’s legacy extends beyond medals and victories. Her rise from humble beginnings in Shahabad, Haryana, to becoming the face of Indian women’s hockey has been an inspiration for young athletes across the nation. Although stepping away from the field as a player, Rani hinted at her desire to explore new roles in hockey, promising to remain dedicated to the sport. “The journey may have changed, but the mission remains the same,” she reiterated, leaving fans hopeful that her expertise will continue to shape Indian hockey’s future. Rani’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian hockey, but her journey is far from over. As the country bids farewell to one of its most iconic players, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of athletes to chase their dreams with the same passion and determination she embodied throughout her career.
