Sports minister surprised with Dipa Karmakar's decision to announce retirement

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed his surprise over Dipa Karmakar's sudden retirement, praising her inspiring journey from a young gymnast to an Olympic trailblazer. Mandaviya highlighted her immense contribution to Indian sports and hoped she would continue inspiring future athletes.

In Short

• Mansukh Mandaviya expressed surprise at Dipa Karmakar’s decision to retire
• Mandaviya praised Dipa for inspiring young girls for taking up gymnastics
• Dipa Karmakar said she made up her mind about retirement earlier this year

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed his surprise and admiration in a heartfelt message to Dipa Karmakar after the renowned gymnast announced her retirement earlier this week. Dipa, who made history as the first Indian woman gymnast to represent the country at the 2016 Rio Olympics, decided to step away from competitive gymnastics at the age of 31.

In his letter, Mandaviya acknowledged Karmakar's decision, stating, *"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."* He went on to praise Dipa's journey, which began at the young age of six and culminated in her becoming a household name in Indian sports.

Reflecting on her achievements, Mandaviya noted how Dipa's dedication and perseverance enabled her to excel in a sport that had few role models in India. He highlighted her performance at the Rio Olympics, where Dipa executed the highly challenging Produnova vault, famously dubbed the "vault of death." This bold move secured her a fourth-place finish in the final, missing out on the bronze medal by just 0.15 points. The minister remarked, *"You added a new chapter in Indian gymnastics by participating in the Olympics, which was not only the outcome of your hard work but it is a great matter of pride for the entire country."*

Dipa Karmakar retires

Dipa's efforts have been widely recognized-she was awarded the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2016 and the Padma Shri in 2017. Mandaviya emphasized that these honors symbolize her immense contribution to Indian sports and added, *"Your journey in gymnastics has been inspirational. You have scaled the highs in the sport and made the country proud despite facing so many difficulties."*

Mandaviya also lauded Dipa's impact on young athletes, especially girls, across India. He expressed his hope that she would remain connected to the sport and continue to inspire the next generation. *"Your achievements have not only inspired those who love sports but especially our daughters, who have got the strength to fulfill their dreams,"* he stated, while hoping that Karmakar would eventually share her knowledge and experience with young talents.

The legendary gymnast's retirement comes a few months after she failed to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics, and she hinted at a future role as a coach or mentor to budding gymnasts. Mandaviya's letter captured the nation's sentiments of pride and respect for Karmakar's legacy in Indian sports.