Want to see India on podium

A Global legend in women's hockey, Rani Rampal announced her retirement last month after almost two decades at the helm of the Indian team.

- In an exclusive interaction with Ajeyo Basu of The Statesman

The end of her glittering career left a big vacuum in Indian women's hockey which will be difficult to fill.

In an exclusive interaction with Ajeyo Basu of The Statesman, the legendary forward talked about her career and life after hockey and more.

Q: Many top sportspersons find it difficult to walk away from their beloved sport after years at the very pinnacle. Did you go through similar emotions?

A: I have had a long, distinguished career of 15-16 years. It was a difficult decision to announce my retirement and walk away from it all. But I think this was the right time because I have no regrets in life and I have done everything I wanted in sports.

After almost 15 years of wearing the Indian jersey with pride, it is time for me to step off the field as a player and begin a new chapter in my life and career.

Q: What were the most memorable moments of your career?

A: We finished fourth at the Tokyo Olympics. That was a big satisfaction and also a big disappointment at the same time. No one had expected us to go so far in the tournament, so proving the critics wrong was a great feeling. Beating a team like Australia in the quarterfinals gave us a lot of satisfaction. But we were determined to win a medal after reaching the semifinals. So losing the playoff for the bronze medal was really heartbreaking.