Dipa Karmakar in action at the 2016 Olympics (X)
The 31-year-old Karmakar recently took to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to express her gratitude reflecting on a rollercoaster of a career.
Dipa Karmakar’s retirment took the country by surprise, and one who recently conveyed his surprise at her decision to retire was none other than Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.
Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar, who bagged the bronze medal for the nation at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, called curtains on her career on Monday.
The 31-year-old took to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to express her gratitude reflecting on a rollercoaster of a career.
“After much thought, I have decided that I am retiring from gymnastics,” the post began.
“This decision was not easy for me, but this is the right time. Gymnastics is a huge part of my life, and I am grateful for every moment – the highs, the lows, and everything in between,” she added.
“I remember a five-year-old Dipa being told that she could never be a gymnast due to her flat feet. But, today, I feel very proud to see my achievements,” she reminisced.
In reply to the Olympian’s decision to retire, Mandaviya wrote a letter to Karmakar, expressing his sheer surprise at her decision, whilst respecting her choices.
“I got to know about your retirement from gymnastics. While your decision surprised me, I have full faith that you have taken this decision keeping in mind your priorities in life and the experiences that you have had. I completely respect your decision,” Mandaviya wrote in a letter to Karmakar.
“Your journey in gymnastics, which began at the age of six, has been inspirational. You have scaled the highs in the sport and made the country proud despite facing so many difficulties.”
“Being awarded with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award and the Padma Shri is the indication of your unique contribution,” he added.
Karmakar was unlucky to miss out on a podium finish at the Rio Olympics in 2016 as she finished fourth in the vault event, missing out on the Bronze by 0.15 points,
Mandaviya said Karmakar’s journey nonetheless as an athlete at the highest level has inspired many young girls in the country.
“Your achievements have not only inspired those who love sports but especially our daughters, who have got the strength to fulfill their dreams,” said the union minister, hoping that Karmakar would be available to share her knowledge with the young athletes sometime in the future.
(with agency inputs)
