After more than two decades of making India proud, Padma Shri Achanta Sharath Kamal has officially retired from international table tennis. The legendary paddler played his final match at the WTT Star Contender in Chennai, marking the end of an extraordinary career.
“Until the moment actually came, I was excited about retiring, especially since I was doing it in my home city. But when I saw my family and fans standing by me, I was overwhelmed,” shared the 42-year-old star. “Wearing the Indian jersey for so many years has been my biggest honor. Now that I won’t be wearing it again as a player, my heart is full, but I feel at peace.”
A Journey Built on Passion and Family Support
Sharath credits his family, especially his wife, entrepreneur Sripoorni Krishnamoorthy, for standing by him through every high and low. “After the Paris Olympics, my wife asked, ‘What’s next?’ Even she wasn’t entirely ready for this moment,” he said. “But we both knew this was the perfect way to say goodbye—playing in front of my home crowd in Chennai.”
From winning 13 Commonwealth Games medals to competing in five Olympics, Sharath’s achievements have shaped Indian table tennis. But one moment stands out: “Winning the singles gold at the 2006 Commonwealth Games was special. It was the first time an Indian won that title, and it proved that we were a force to be reckoned with,” he recalled.
A New Role in Indian Table Tennis
Though he is stepping away as a player, Sharath Kamal promises that his love for the sport will never fade. “Since my first game for India in 2003, I have seen the sport grow like never before. The next generation is talented and hungry for success, and I will continue to support their journey—just in a different way,” he said with determination.
As one of India’s greatest table tennis players, Sharath Kamal leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. His story is a testament to hard work, passion, and an undying love for the game.
