Is This the End of Rahul Chaudhari? Kabaddi Legend Announces Retirement from Pro Kabaddi League

The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is bracing for the departure of one of its biggest stars. Rahul Chaudhari, the "poster boy" of the league since its inception, has announced that the upcoming season will be his last in the tournament.

A Peak Time for Stepping Back

Chaudhari, who has been a mainstay in kabaddi since 2010, made the announcement during the launch of the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL). Reflecting on his career, he acknowledged that there's a "peak period" for every athlete. He believes it's equally important to know when to step back at the right time.

"I have been playing kabaddi since 2010 continuously," Chaudhari said. "Every player has a peak time of 4 to 5 years. I think a player should even step back during his peak. So, I am thinking that this year I will say, 'Jay Hind, Jay Bharat' after the PKL season. I will say goodbye."

A Guaranteed Farewell, Not a Performance-Based Decision

Chaudhari's retirement plans are clear and unwavering. He emphasized his intention to play at least one or two matches next season, regardless of his performance. Even if he finishes the season as the league's top raider, his decision to retire remains resolute.

"I will try to play the next season," he declared. "And it does not matter how I perform, I will retire. It is not in my hand if any team picks me or not. I will try to play at least one or two matches. If my performance is good, I will play the full tournament, but again, even if I end the season as the best raider, I am going to say, 'Jay Hind, Jay Bharat'."

A Storied Career in Pro Kabaddi

Chaudhari's legacy in the PKL is undeniable. He is one of the elite few who have participated in all ten seasons of the league. His journey began with the Telugu Titans, followed by stints with the Tamil Thalaivas, Puneri Paltan, and finally, the Jaipur Pink Panthers, where he achieved championship glory in Season 9.

A Missed Opportunity in the UPKL

While announcing his retirement from the PKL, Chaudhari also expressed his regret at missing out on playing in the UPKL, despite being the tournament's brand ambassador. The Bijnour-born athlete, who hails from Uttar Pradesh, was passionate about participating in the event that aims to nurture young kabaddi talent from his home state.

"Yes, I am regretting," Chaudhari admitted. "I told the coach once that I'll play, but he said no, you don't play, you become our brand ambassador. He told me that I am a player of another level. I want to play but... I even said that I am ready to play for free (laughs). I said don't put me in auction, just give me a team, I'll play, but it was not possible."

A Passing Torch and a Legacy to Inspire

Although Chaudhari won't be gracing the UPKL field as a player, his presence as the brand ambassador will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of kabaddi stars from Uttar Pradesh. The UPKL is set to take place from July 11th to 25th in Noida.

The Future of Kabaddi Without Rahul Chaudhari

Rahul Chaudhari's retirement announcement marks the impending end of an era in the PKL. His presence has been instrumental in propelling the league to its current heights. While his absence will leave a void, it also paves the way for new raiders to emerge and carry the torch forward.