Sharath Kamal to Retire from Table Tennis

India’s legendary table tennis player Achanta Sharath Kamal has announced his retirement from professional table tennis. His farewell tournament will be the WTT Star Contender event, scheduled to take place at the Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai from March 25 to 30, 2025. The 42-year-old, 10-time National Champion and five-time Olympian has had a remarkable career, earning widespread recognition for his achievements at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and Olympics. Despite setbacks, including injuries and administrative challenges, Sharath’s resilience and dedication have made him one of the most respected figures in Indian sports. Even after retirement, he aims to contribute to the game through coaching, administration, and athlete development.

Key Highlights of Sharath Kamal’s Career and Retirement

Career Achievements

• Five-time Olympian and India’s highest-ranked table tennis player at world rank 42 (as of 2025).
• 10-time National Singles Champion, making him one of India’s most decorated paddlers.
• Asian Games Double Medallist and a record-holder at the Commonwealth Games with 13 medals from five editions.
• Won men’s singles and men’s team gold at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games on debut.
• Achieved four medals at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games (three gold and one silver).
• Highest world ranking: 30 at the peak of his career.

Challenges & Setbacks

• Hip injury at the 2015 World Championships in Suzhou, China, almost ended his career.
• Faced criticism for extending his career, but proved his resilience by returning stronger.
• TTFI suspension in 2022 by the Delhi High Court posed administrative challenges for Indian table tennis.
• Struggled with form before the Paris Olympics but bounced back at the Singapore Smash tournament, reaching the quarterfinals.

Paris Olympics & Future Role

• Instrumental in India’s men’s and women’s teams qualifying for the Paris Olympics 2024—a historic feat.
• Despite not winning a medal, he remains a mentor for young Indian players.
• Serving as Co-Chair of the International Table Tennis Federation’s Athletes Commission, ensuring global representation for Indian table tennis.
• Actively involved in setting up a Table Tennis Academy in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Sports Development Authority.