NEW DELHI: Vandana Katariya, a prominent figure in Indian women's hockey, announced her retirement on Tuesday, concluding a remarkable career that lasted over 15 years. With an impressive tally of 320 international appearances and 158 goals, Vandana holds the record as the most capped player in the history of Indian women's hockey.

Approaching her 33rd birthday in two weeks, she leaves behind a legacy characterized by resilience, steadfast determination, and an unwavering commitment to elevate Indian women's hockey.

Born in Haridwar, Vandana made her debut for India in 2009 and played a crucial role in several pivotal moments for the sport, including India's historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics, where she became the first and only Indian woman to achieve a hat-trick in the Games.

Having played her final match during the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League in February, Vandana expressed, “This decision was not made lightly, but I believe it is the right time. Hockey has been my life for as long as I can remember, and representing India has been the highest honor. However, every journey has its end, and I depart with immense pride, gratitude, and love for the sport. Indian hockey is in capable hands, and I will always remain its most ardent supporter.”

She expressed her sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to her journey. “I wish to thank my coaches, teammates, support staff, Hockey India, my family, and all the fans who have stood by me throughout the years. Each cheer, every message, and all words of encouragement have meant everything to me.”

Originating from Roshnabad, Haridwar, Vandana's path began like that of many young girls in India—on dusty fields, fueled by a dream that surpassed her circumstances. Over time, she represented India on some of the sport's most prestigious stages, including two Olympic Games (Rio 2016, Tokyo 2021), two World Cups (2018, 2022), three Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, 2022), and three Asian Games (2014, 2018, 2022).

She played a crucial role in winning gold medals at the Asian Champions Trophy (2016, 2023) and the Nations Cup (2022), as well as securing silver medals at the Asian Games 2018 and the Asian Champions Trophy in 2013 and 2018. Additionally, she earned bronze medals at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the 2014 and 2022 Asian Games, and the Pro League 2021-22.

Vandana was also an integral part of India’s bronze medal-winning team at the 2013 Junior World Cup, where she emerged as the team's leading scorer and the tournament's third-highest goal scorer.

In addition to her representation of India in numerous international tournaments throughout her career, Vandana participated in the inaugural edition of the Women’s Hockey India League in 2025, playing for the Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers.

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