Table tennis player Sharath Kamal's international career concluded on Saturday. His journey ended after a loss to compatriot Snehit Suraj in the pre-quarterfinals of the WTT Star Contender tournament.
Sports News: Indian table tennis legend Sharath Kamal bid farewell to his professional table tennis career on Saturday. His international career concluded after a defeat to compatriot Snehit Suraj in the last-16 match of the WTT Star Contender tournament. Wildcard entrant Snehit defeated Sharath in straight three games, 11-9, 11-8, 11-9. Following this loss, Sharath emotionally announced his retirement.
Sharath Kamal's Post-Retirement Statement
The 42-year-old Sharath Kamal said, "Somewhere, I felt it was enough. I've done my job as a player. Now I want to explore the possibility of giving something back to the sport from the other side of the court." He also mentioned his desire to take on an administrative role. Sharath stated, "As a player, I did what I could for the country. Now I want to contribute to the growth of the sport as a coach, mentor, or administrator."
Achievements of a Stellar Career
Sharath Kamal's name will be etched in the annals of Indian table tennis history. He won a total of 13 medals at the Commonwealth Games, including seven gold, three silver, and three bronze. Sharath won gold in the men's singles at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games after a 16-year gap since his previous gold medal win in 2006.
Sharath Kamal is the third most successful athlete from India at the Commonwealth Games. Only shooter Jaspal Rana (15 medals) and shooter Samresh Jung (14 medals) have won more medals than him. Sharath won bronze medals in the men's team and mixed doubles events at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games. He further added to his achievements with a bronze medal at the 2021 Doha Asian Championships.
Manav Thakkar's Historic Performance
Amidst the news of Sharath Kamal's retirement, another Indian table tennis player, Manav Thakkar, created history. The 24-year-old Manav Thakkar became the first Indian male player to reach the WTT Star Contender semifinals. He defeated Germany's Andre Bertelsmeier and South Korea's Olympic medalist Lim Jong-hoon.
In the men's doubles final, South Korea's Lim Jong-hoon and An Jae-hyun defeated Japan's Tomokazu Harimoto and Sora Matsushima 11-4, 11-13, 11-2, 11-3 to claim the title. Meanwhile, in the women's doubles final, Japan's Miwa Harimoto and Miyu Kihira defeated South Korea's Shin Yu-bin and Ryu Hwanna 9-11, 11-9, 13-11, 12-14, 11-5 to secure the title.
Sharath's Contribution Will Never Be Forgotten
Sharath Kamal's retirement marks the end of an era in Indian table tennis. He elevated Indian table tennis to new heights with his skills and dedication. His fans will now look forward to seeing him in a new capacity—be it as a coach, mentor, or administrator. His legacy and inspiration to the sport will always be remembered.
