Odisha woman hockey star Deep Grace Ekka announced her retirement today. A two-time Olympian, Ekka played 268 international matches and scored 24 goals during her international career that lasted for 12 years. She was the most reliable defender of the National team.

"It is with immense gratitude and humility that I officially announce my retirement from International Hockey today. The journey from 2011 to 2023 has been the highlight of my life, and I am deeply honoured to have represented India at the pinnacle of the sport," Ekka said in a social media post.

The 29-year-old was instrumental in India qualifying for the 2016 Rio Olympics. She was a vital cog in the defence department at the Tokyo Games where India finished fourth. She won one silver and two bronze medals in Asian Games and one bronze in Commonwealth Games.

Ekka, who hails from Lulkidihi village in Sundargarh district, started her career at SAI-SAG Centre, Sundargarh as a 13-year-old in 2007. She received many awards, including the Arjuna Award in 2022.