Indian table tennis player Archana Kamath (24) shocked everyone by deciding to retire days after competing fiercely at the Paris Olympics. Despite reaching the quarterfinals and helping the Indian women's table tennis team achieve its best ever Olympic performance, Archana has reportedly told her coach Anshul Garg that she no longer sees herself competing professionally in table tennis. The information was brought by the Indian Express. Rather, she stated that she would like to continue her studies in the United States. Archana's journey to the Olympics in Paris was not easy. She was chosen ahead of the standout Ayhika Mukherjee, sparking controversy. However, Archana silenced her detractors by contributing significantly to India's unprecedented success at the Games. She also triumphed against the slightly better Xiaona Shan to record India's only win over Germany.

Although it was first stated that lack of financial benefits played a role, Archana subsequently stated in an interview with the same department that her decision to leave the game was solely motivated by her academics. "My passion for academics is the only reason why I retired from competitive table tennis. I can say with certainty that it was not a financial decision in the slightest as I had incredible support, material and otherwise," Archana noted. Archana made a big change in her life when she realised that studying overseas would be a more practical long-term strategy after realising her academic talents.

National table tennis coach Massimo Costantini has expressed dismay at the loss of one of India's top players, saying a "stronger system" is urgently needed for athletes to continue their careers in the sport. “Okay, we've won another piece to our mosaic of Indian table tennis players,” I thought as I watched Archana compete. I knew she was always thinking about school. I understand her decision, so I'm not too surprised," adds Costantini. "For sport to become a career, we need to strengthen the system. In addition, we must consider how to protect and ensure a better future for athletes who sacrifice part of their lives to represent their nation.