Archana Kamath Retires to Study in U.S.

Indian table tennis star Archana Kamath has announced her retirement from the sport at age 24, surprising many given her recent success at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she played a crucial role in India's historic quarter-final appearance. Kamath's decision is driven by her passion for academics, as she plans to pursue a Master's in Public Policy at the University of Michigan. Despite speculation, Kamath clarified that her choice was not financially motivated, citing substantial support from organizations like OGQ, TOPS, and Indian Oil throughout her career. Her departure raises discussions about the financial viability and support for table tennis in India, but Kamath emphasized her gratitude for the backing she received. She remains committed to contributing to India's development through her academic pursuits and hopes to continue playing table tennis recreationally. Her brother, who works at NASA, has been a significant influence on her decision to prioritize education.