©Simchinrai • CC BY-SA 4.0
Dipa Karmakar Announces Retirement from Gymnastics After 25-Year Career
Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar, a pioneer and role model in the sport, announced her retirement today after a successful 25-year-long career. She shared an emotional note on social media, reflecting on her journey, achievements, and future plans.
Dipa Karmakar Retirement Announcement
Karmakar highlighted that her decision to retire was not easy but the right move at this stage in her life. “Gymnastics has been a major part of my life, and I am grateful for every moment — the highs, the lows, and everything in between,” she wrote, expressing her deep connection with the sport.
Achievements and Memories
Reflecting on her career, Karmakar recalled her first steps as a gymnast, starting from the age of five. Over the years, she represented India at the world stage, winning several medals and accolades. Her standout moment was at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she executed the Produnova Vault, one of the most challenging moves in gymnastics, making it the most memorable moment of her career.
Karmakar also shared her emotions about how watching her younger self gave her immense happiness, as it reminded her of the courage to dream big and pursue it against all odds.
Future Plans and Gratitude
Karmakar mentioned her last victory at the Asian Gymnastics Championship in Tashkent as a turning point, making her realize that her body could no longer endure the rigorous demands of the sport. This decision, although difficult to accept, marked the closure of an era.
She extended heartfelt thanks to her coaches, Bishweshwar Nandi and Soma Ma’am, who have supported and guided her throughout her career. Karmakar also expressed gratitude to the Tripura government, Gymnastics Federation of India, and other organizations that provided her the platform and support.
Continuing Her Association with Gymnastics
Although she has retired from competitive gymnastics, Karmakar emphasized that her bond with the sport remains unbroken. She expressed a desire to contribute as a mentor or coach, helping to nurture and support young female gymnasts in India.
“Once again, thank you, everyone, for being a part of my journey,” she concluded.
Karmakar’s retirement marks the end of an illustrious chapter in Indian gymnastics, but her legacy and influence will continue to inspire generations to come.
