Padma Shri Awardee Announces Retirement, Will Continue Supporting Young Players

Shimla, December 29: Renowned international Kabaddi star and Padma Shri awardee, Ajay Thakur, has announced his retirement from international Kabaddi, marking the end of an illustrious career in the sport. He made this decision during a Kabaddi competition in Melbourne, Australia, and shared the news through a heartfelt video message.

Ajay Thakur, reflecting on his long and successful career, expressed his desire to step back and give young players the opportunity to shine on the international stage. He cited physical injuries as a key factor in his decision, which have hindered his ability to continue playing at the highest level. “Young players in the country are performing exceptionally well now, and I am confident they will take India’s name to even greater heights,” said Thakur in his retirement message.

Thakur, known for his incredible skill as a raider and leadership as captain of the Indian Kabaddi team, has been a trailblazer in the sport. His exceptional contributions to Kabaddi earned him prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri and the Arjuna Award from the Government of India. Alongside his sports career, Thakur also serves as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Himachal Pradesh, currently posted in Una.

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Despite retiring from international competition, Thakur will continue to contribute to the sport by nurturing young talent at his Kohinoor Sports Kabaddi Academy in Dabhota. The academy aims to prepare aspiring Kabaddi players to represent India at the global level.

Thakur made his retirement announcement after leading the Indian team in the Kabaddi competition in Melbourne, which was organized by the Australian government. His announcement has since been met with an outpouring of well-wishes from the sports community, all of whom celebrate his incredible legacy and dedication to the sport.