10 Indian women in sports who inspired the nation

Women are making waves everywhere – be it art, science, literature or sports. In the world of sports, Indian women have not just broken barriers, but many records as well. They have fought all odds and become true inspirations for the whole nation.

Famous female sports players in India

From the fields to the tracks, these extraordinary women have not only shined in their respective sports but have also become strong role models for future generations. Educate Girls brings you the names of 10 of the many Indian female sports players who have left a huge impression on the sporting world and inspired millions across the country.

1. P.T. Usha – Athletics – This Kerala-based Golden Girl is undoubtedly the queen of Indian track and field sports. Due to the kind of speed she has shown on the tracks, many nicknames such as “udanpari”, “Payyoli Express”, etc. were given to her. P.T. Usha is one of the most decorated female athletes in Indian history, who didn’t just win the hearts of the Indian womenfolk, but also is an inspiration to many women across the world. She has broken many national records in multiple sprint and hurdle events, and has won countless medals at the Asian Games, Olympics and other World Championships. Usha’s achievements have paved the way for countless young girls to pursue athletics as a career.

2. Mary Kom – Boxing – Mary Kom, also known as “Magnificent Mary,” is a trailblazer in the world of boxing. During her youth, she was asked to choose between her personal life and boxing, and guess what she chose! By becoming the first ever Indian woman to win gold at the Asian Games, she has made the heart of every Indian woman swell with pride. A symbol of perseverance and determination, this wonder-woman shows strength like no other. With multiple world championship titles and national level medals to her name, she has shattered stereotypes and proved that women can shine in traditionally male-dominated sports.

3. Sania Mirza – Tennis – Sania Mirza, the tennis sensation, has been a trailblazer for Indian women in the world of sports. She was once the world’s number one player in the double’s category. She also ruled the Indian tennis world for nearly a decade, by being the numero uno in the singles category. Mirza won many Grand Slam titles and a magnificent career spanning over two decades. After facing many difficulties in her earlier life and career, she has inspired a generation of young girls to dream big and pursue their passion for sports. 

4. P.V. Sindhu – Badminton – P.V. Sindhu, the ace badminton player and among very famous female sports players in India, has engraved her name in history as the first Indian woman to win two silver medals at the Olympic Games. Despite facing several injuries, she never gave up on her dreams. Her hard work and undying spirit are the reason for her success. Her fierce determination, unmatched skill, and indomitable spirit have made her a beacon of hope for aspiring sports persons across the nation.

5. Sakshi Malik – Wrestling – Hailing from Haryana had to work her way up to reach where she stands now. She comes from a family of wrestlers, with her grandfather being a wrestler as well. She has been wrestling since the tender age of 12. Sakshi Malik scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal. Her remarkable journey from a small village to the world stage is a testament to her resilience, perseverance, and unwavering determination.

6. Saina Nehwal – Badminton – Saina Nehwal, an amazing badminton player hailing from a middle class family, has been a pioneer for Indian women in the world of badminton. She has been training since a very young age and rose to a stage where she is an inspiration to every girl in pursuit of success in the sport. Her persistent chase of excellence and untiring dedication have made her a role model for aspiring athletes across the country.

7. Dutee Chand – Athletics – Dutee Chand, the sprint queen, has overcome numerous obstacles to become one of India’s fastest athletes. Winning twice at the Olympics, she is one of the few very successful Indian women athletes. She comes from a small place in Orissa, born in a weaver’s family, Dutee took up the sport drawing inspiration from her sister. Her courage to challenge social norms and her solid commitment to her sport has made her an icon of strength and resilience.

8. Dipa Karmakar – Gymnastics – Dipa Karmakar, the shining star in Indian gymnastics, has made history by becoming the first Indian female gymnast to compete in the Olympic Games. Did you know that she is among the only five women who have been able to master the Produnova vault? Her awe-inspiring performances and fearless spirit have inspired young gymnasts to aim for the stars.

9. Mithali Raj – Cricket – Mithali Raj, the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, has been a trailblazer in the world of cricket. She is undoubtedly one of the most famous female sports players in India. With countless records to her name and a career spanning over two decades, she has inspired millions of young girls to take up cricket and pursue their dreams. She is among the best female cricketers the world has seen.

10. Hima Das –Athletics – Quite aptly nicknamed as Dhing Express, this young athlete from Assam is the perfect example of how people overcome their problems and reach the heights that others often dream of. Hima Das is a sprinter who won the gold medal in the 400 meters at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. She is known for her intense speed and inspiring finishing kick. Das’s success has shattered the myth that Indian women athletes cannot compete at the international level.

These incredible Indian female sports personalities have not only excelled in their respective sports but have also become symbols of courage, determination, and perseverance. Imagine this, if we are able to provide the young girls of today the kind of sports and education infrastructure that they deserve, will we not be cultivating a new generation of such powerful female sports players in India? 

Let the remarkable achievements of the Indian female role models inspire us, and motivate us to donate towards educating girl children – thereby empowering young girls to break barriers, defy prejudices, and chase their dreams relentlessly.