Kolkata : One of the greatest Hockey player and legend Rani Rampal has announced retirement from international Hockey on October 24, 2024, ending her 15 years old illustrious career.
Known for leadership skills, she guided India to 4th place in Tokyo Olympics 2020.
At the young age of 14, Rani made her debut for the Indian team at the 2008 Olympic Qualifiers in Kazan, Russia.
She played in the Champion’s Challenge Tournament held in Kazan, Russia in June 2009 and powered India to a win by scoring 4 goals in the finals. She was adjudged “The Top Goal Scorer” and the “Young Player of the Tournament.”
Over the years, she became a force to be reckoned with on the global hockey stage. In 2010 World Cup, she, at 15 , became the youngest Indian in the side & scored 7 goals in it.
Rani has featured in 254 international matches and scored 134 goals. She , a forward also acted as striker and doubled up as mid-fielder.
Her leadership and performance were instrumental in India’s 2017 Women’s Asia Cup victory and a silver medal finish at the 2018 Asian Games.
Apart from these, she helped India win Gold in – 2016 Asian Champions Trophy, 2016 South Asian Games, Silver in – 2009 Asia Cup, 2013 Asian Champions Trophy, Bronze in – 2013 Asia Cup, 2014 Asian Games, 2010 Asian Champions Trophy & 2013 Junior World Cup.
She scripted history winning Arjuna Award (2016), Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2020), Padma Shri (2020), & became the 1st Indian Woman to win the prestigious FIH Women’s Young Player of the Year Award.
Despite her success on the field, Rani’s journey was far from easy. Born into poverty in Haryana’s Shahabad Markanda, her determination defied societal pressures that often discouraged girls from pursuing sports. Supported by her father and guided by legendary coach Baldev Singh, Rani’s story is one of perseverance and resilience.
Reflecting on her career, Rani shared, “These past 15 years have been nothing short of a fairytale. From a young girl playing with borrowed sticks to leading the Indian team on the world stage — it has been a long and special ride. I take immense pride in representing India and inspiring young girls across the country.”
Upon retirement, Rani will start a new innings, with Hockey of course, entering the sphere of mentoring.
She’s now set to mentor and coach Soorma Hockey Club in Women’s Hockey India League (WHIL) starting in January 2025.
This will be a new journey for her and she would like to make her coaching career as legendary as her playing one.
