It is often said that “the game recognizes the game” and Indian batsman Virat Kohli’s interaction – albeit virtual – with tennis stalwart Novak Djokovic reflects this in the truest sense of the word.
A recent video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) sheds light on Kohli’s relationship with the Serbian player, which started after the 35-year-old cricketer decided to text the tennis player only to find that Djokovic had already texted him direct message (DM).
On how his virtual interaction with the tennis ace began, Kohli said: “I came in contact with Djokovic very organically. I was looking at his Instagram profile once and I happened to hit the ‘message’ button. I thought I would say ‘ Hello’ [to him].”
“[However] I already saw a message from him on my DM. I had never opened it [before] myself,” said Kohli.
“When I first saw my own messages, I saw that he messaged me himself. Then I thought, let’s check if it’s a fake account or not. But then I checked and it was a legitimate [account]. We started talking, they exchanged messages every now and then. I congratulate him on all his fantastic achievements,” added the ODI World Cup 2023 player.
Kohli said the two share a lot of mutual respect and admiration before recalling how he received a personal message from the tennis ace on his 50th ODI century.
“There was a mutual admiration and respect. It’s nice to connect with world-class athletes who excel at a high level. Together, it kind of sends a message of inspiration to the next generation.”
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“I have a lot of respect for him and his journey, his passion for fitness is something I follow and believe in. So there’s a lot to connect with. Hopefully when he comes to India or if I happen to be in a country where plays, I catch up with him and just chill and have a cup of coffee,” the Indian batsman added.
Earlier, speaking on Sony Sports Network, Djokovic revealed that despite not having met in person, they have stayed in touch through text messages over the past few years.
“Kohli and I have been writing a bit for a few years. We never had the opportunity to meet in person, but it was truly an honor and a privilege to hear him speak so highly of me. Of course I admire all his careers and achievements. I have started playing cricket but I am not very good at it. But my task is to improve my cricketing skills before I come to India and not embarrass myself while I’m there.”
“I have felt the love from India for many years. I have only been to India once, 10-11 years ago, to play an exhibition tennis match in New Delhi, so I hope to be able to return in the near future. I have a great desire to explore your beautiful country, which has so much history and culture to offer the world,” said Djokovic.
