Experienced Indian women's football team goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan has announced her retirement, marking the end of her illustrious 17-year career.
Sports News: Veteran Indian women's football team goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan has announced her retirement after a 17-year professional career. Aditi has made a name for herself not only in India but also in international football. She was the first Indian female footballer to play professional football in Europe.
Aditi shared the information about her retirement through social media and, in her emotional message, described football as a source of her identity and confidence.
Retirement Information Shared Via Social Media
Aditi Chauhan announced her retirement by sharing a long post on her official X (Twitter) account. She wrote: "Thank you, football, for shaping me, testing me, and pushing me forward. With this memorable 17-year journey, I am retiring from professional football with pride. This game has given me not just a career but an identity."
Starting with a small dream in Delhi, she traveled to the UK, completed her Masters in Sports Management, and played for West Ham United. Aditi said about her career that she never compromised between education and sports. She moved forward diligently taking both along.
Played 57 International Matches for India
Aditi Chauhan played a total of 57 international matches for the Indian women's football team. She was part of the Indian team that won the SAFF Women's Championship in 2012, 2016, and 2019. Her contribution to Indian football will always be remembered. As a goalkeeper, Aditi played a major role in helping India win in difficult situations on many occasions.
Aditi Chauhan pursued both studies and sports together in the UK. She earned a Master's degree in Sports Management and played for the women's team of the prestigious English football club West Ham United. She became the first Indian woman player to play professional football in Europe.
Aditi played football with West Ham United for two seasons and made a name for herself in the European football circle with her goalkeeping skills. After that, she returned to India in 2018 and made a comeback in domestic football.
Also Performed Exceptionally Well in IWL
After returning to India, Aditi became a part of Gokulam Kerala FC in the Indian Women's League (IWL). She won the IWL title with Gokulam Kerala FC in the 2019-20 and 2021-22 seasons. Aditi's experience and performance made Gokulam Kerala FC a b contender in women's football in India. Aditi Chauhan expressed her gratitude to her parents, especially her mother, in her retirement message.
She said, "My parents have always stood by me. My mother gave me strength at every step and silently supported me in every decision I made. Whatever I am, it is because of my mother." Aditi further wrote that now she wants to work not as a player but to create a b path and a positive environment for the next generation.
Aditi Chauhan's Football Journey
- Began career in 2007
- 57 international matches for India
- Three-time SAFF Championship winner (2012, 2016, 2019)
- Played in Europe with West Ham United
- Two-time IWL Champion with Gokulam Kerala FC
After retirement, Aditi Chauhan now wants to remain active in other aspects related to football. She wants women's football in India to have a better environment and wants to strengthen the next generation by giving them her experience.
