India, March 29 -- Indian table tennis star Achanta Sharath Kamal called time on his illustrious career after losing in the round of 16 of the WTT Star Contender event in Chennai on Saturday.

The 42-year-old paddler, who has been the flag-bearer of Indian table tennis for over 20 years, had announced earlier this month that the tournament in his hometown would be his last as a professional athlete.

For a player who has been a mentor to a number of young players, Sharath Kamal's last opponent turned out to be his doubles partner Snehit Suravajjula who scored a tight 11-9, 11-8, 11-9 win. On Friday, the pair had bowed out in the men's doubles semi-final.

"It's the right time to go. I made this decision six months ago. So, of course, when...