Elite Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar has officially announced her retirement from the sport, a decision she describes as one of the most difficult of her life.
In a message shared on her social media account, Karmakar expressed gratitude for her journey in gymnastics, which has been a significant part of her life.
“After much contemplation, I have decided to retire from gymnastics. This decision was not easy, but I believe this is the right time,” Karmakar wrote.
She reflected on her early struggles, recalling how, at the age of five, she was told that her flat feet would prevent her from becoming a gymnast.
“Looking back at my achievements fills me with immense pride. Representing India on the world stage, winning medals, and performing the Produnova Vault at the Rio Olympics remain the most memorable moments of my career,” she added.
𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚’𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐠𝐲𝐦𝐧𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐩𝐚 𝐊𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭! 🥹
“I still remember that five year old Dipa, who was told that because of her flat foot she can’t become a gymnast,” Dipa took social media to announce her farewell… pic.twitter.com/L7Q3pApIHL
— The Bridge (@the_bridge_in) October 7, 2024
A history maker
Karmakar made history as the first Indian gymnast to compete at the Olympic Games in Rio, ending a 52-year wait for the country’s representation in the sport.
She is also the first Indian woman gymnast to win a medal at the Commonwealth Games, the first to secure a medal at the Asian Championships, and the first Indian gymnast to win a gold medal at a global event.
Furthermore, she is one of only five women in the world who have successfully landed the highly challenging Produnova vault.
Her retirement comes after a remarkable career filled with notable accomplishments, including her most recent victory at the Asian Gymnastics Championship in Tashkent.
She described this event as a turning point, where she felt she could continue to push her body. That said, she recognized the need for rest as her body began to display signs that it was indeed time to step back.
‘Heart not ready to let go’
“Sometimes our body tells us that it’s time to rest, but my heart is not ready to let go,” she wrote.
The gymnast expressed her appreciation for those who supported her throughout her journey.
She thanked her coaches, Bishweshwar Nandi and Soma Nandi, for their guidance over the past 25 years, stating they helped her become her strongest self.
Karmakar also acknowledged the support of the Tripura government, the Gymnastics Federation, the Sports Authority of India, GoSports Foundation, and Meraki Sport & Entertainment.
“Most importantly, I would like to thank my family, who have been with me through my good and bad days,” she said.
Karmakar emphasized that while she is retiring from active competition, her connection to gymnastics will remain strong.
“I hope to give back to this sport, perhaps by mentoring or coaching other girls like myself,” she added.
As Karmakar closes this chapter of her life, she expresses her gratitude to everyone who has been a part of her journey, stating, “Once again, thank you, everyone, for being a part of my journey.”
Dipa Karmakar leaves behind a legacy as one of India’s most celebrated gymnasts, having inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles.