Paris Olympian Archana Kamath Retires from Table Tennis to Focus on Academic Pursuits
New Delhi: Archana Kamath, a standout performer for India’s women’s table tennis team at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has announced her decision to retire from professional table tennis to pursue higher studies in the United States. At just 24 years old, Kamath has made the choice to shift her focus to academics after playing a crucial role in the team’s historic run in Paris.
Kamath was instrumental in India’s progress to the quarter-finals, marking the team’s first-ever advance beyond the round of 16 at the Olympics. In their match against Germany, where the team fell 1-3, Kamath was the sole Indian player to secure a victory. Despite her significant contributions, Kamath has decided to retire from the sport due to concerns about long-term stability and financial prospects.
Following the Olympics, Kamath had a candid discussion with her coach, Anshul Garg, about her future in the sport. Both concluded that the path to an Olympic medal was fraught with challenges, given her current world ranking and the dominance of countries like China in table tennis. Garg acknowledged Kamath’s recent improvements but respected her decision, noting that once she makes up her mind, it is difficult to change it.
Kamath’s father, Girish, highlighted that her decision was motivated by her passion for academics rather than financial concerns. She has always balanced her athletic career with academic pursuits, completing a graduation in Economics and a Master’s degree in International Relations, Strategies, and Securities. With a deep-seated commitment to her studies, Kamath is now focusing on her academic goals, pursuing full-time studies in Michigan.
Kamath’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in her life, as she moves on from a sport that saw her achieve notable success, including a memorable performance at the Paris Olympics. Despite her departure from professional table tennis, she leaves with no regrets, having dedicated 15 years to the sport and representing her country with pride.
FOLLOW FOR MORE.
