Sharath Kamal: India's Legend Leaves the Big Table Tennis Stage

After more than 22 years at the top, Indian table tennis great Sharath Kamal will retire this month bidding farewell to his racket and famous bandana. Among the many benchmarks he reached were seven gold medals from the Commonwealth Games, two bronze medals from the Asian Games, and five Olympic appearances. At 42, he has chosen to retire even though he has encouragement to keep on for another Olympic cycle.

Being a symbol of the rise of table tennis in India and having a major influence on the world scene, Sharath has always motivated the younger generation. Notwithstanding several injuries, he embraced new challenges and adjusted to changes in the game. Retirement does not mean bidding farewell to the sport; Sharath intends to work administratively and will still support table tennis both in India and abroad.