Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has once again highlighted his admiration for India and its sporting culture, revealing that cricket legend Virat Kohli played a key role in shaping his interest in the game.
Speaking at the 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid, Djokovic expressed his deep connection with Indian fans and his desire to visit the country soon.
During a red-carpet interaction, Djokovic thanked Indian supporters for their unwavering love over the years.
He emphasized that the passion of Indian sports fans has always stood out, both at global tournaments and across different sporting platforms. The Serbian star also shared that he has been feeling a strong pull to visit India for quite some time and hopes to make the trip in the near future.
Djokovic’s remarks gained further attention when he opened up about his bond with Virat Kohli. The tennis icon revealed that Kohli was the reason he began following cricket, a sport that is not widely popular in Serbia.
The Virat Kohli business empire, built alongside his on-field success, reflects his global influence, which continues to inspire athletes worldwide. Their friendship, built on mutual respect, has grown over time, with both stars staying in regular contact.
Looking ahead, Djokovic expressed excitement about the possibility of meeting Kohli during his India visit. He even hinted at a unique crossover moment in which the two sporting icons could share the field for a friendly mix of tennis and cricket, creating a memorable experience for fans.
Beyond his India plans, Djokovic also reflected on his future ambitions, including the upcoming Olympic cycle, while acknowledging the challenges that come with this stage of his career. Despite uncertainties, his commitment to representing Serbia remains strong.
The Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony, held at Madrid’s iconic Cibeles Palace, celebrated excellence across global sport, with Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka taking top honors.
However, Djokovic’s heartfelt comments about India and his connection with Kohli captured significant global attention, resonating strongly with fans across both tennis and cricket communities.
