It’s hard to think of a sporting figure who has reached the kind of global profile Virat Kohli enjoys. While there may have been great players before him—and there are sure to be stars emerging in the future—Kohli’s influence on cricket’s worldwide visibility is difficult to dispute. His popularity has even spilled beyond the game itself, with names from football and tennis publicly admitting their admiration for the former India captain.
David Beckham, Harry Kane and Novak Djokovic are among those who have spoken about how much they value Kohli’s presence and persona. Djokovic, in particular, drew attention to Kohli’s reach three years ago when he revealed he was surprised to discover that Kohli had more followers on Instagram than LeBron James.
Djokovic on his connection with Kohli
- Djokovic explained that Kohli was instrumental in sparking his own interest in cricket, saying he started following the sport because of the India star.
- He described Kohli as both a friend and someone he respects and admires, adding that his cricket journey became more consistent through Kohli’s influence.
- Djokovic also said they keep in touch, and expressed a wish to spend time together when he comes to India—suggesting they could enjoy a mix of tennis and cricket while celebrating sport and sharing positive energy.
- Speaking during the Laureus World Sports Awards on Tuesday, Djokovic said, “Virat is a friend and someone I, of course, respect and admire,” and stressed that Kohli was the reason he began watching the sport more closely.
Wimbledon moment and social media exchange
Last year, Kohli watched live action at Wimbledon, where Djokovic faced Alex de Minaur in a fourth-round encounter. Djokovic won that match, and Kohli later posted on Instagram to congratulate him.
Djokovic then replied, thanking Kohli for the gesture and the kind words that followed.
Djokovic’s “message for India”
- Djokovic said he genuinely values the support he receives from Indian fans, noting that he has met many of them over time.
- He shared what he called his message: love, respect and appreciation for Indian tennis fans and sports supporters across the world.
- He added that he wants to reach India sooner rather than later, describing it as feeling like a “calling” for the past couple of years.
- Djokovic said he hopes to come to India to attend an event, play a match, or take part in some form of sporting activity.
- He concluded by saying he feels very close to Indian people and genuinely wants to be there.
With Djokovic’s admiration for Kohli clearly evident—and with a potential India visit on the horizon—the two sports worlds appear set for another meaningful crossover, this time driven by personal respect, fandom, and a shared love of competition.
