'Hopefully he can join me': Novak Djokovic reveals reason he follows cricket

Everyone has an exciting reason why they follow a particular sport—be it the love for a favourite player, the adrenaline rush of a last-minute goal or wicket, or something more personal. Recently, tennis player Novak Djokovic shared what drew him towards cricket—and the answer pointed straight to one of India’s iconic and widely loved cricketers. Guess who?

Speaking at the Laureus World Sports Awards, Djokovic opened up about his admiration for Virat Kohli, revealing that the star batter is the very reason he began following cricket. He admitted that cricket wasn’t something he kept up with earlier, but Kohli’s influence changed that, sparking a growing interest over time.

Also, Djokovic went on to call Kohli a “friend,” adding that he deeply respects and admires him. “Yes, Virat is a friend and someone I, of course, respect and admire. He’s actually, to be honest, the reason why I started following cricket. I hadn’t followed it before, but through him, I started following it more,” he said in an interaction with Times Now.

Looking ahead, the Serbian tennis star hinted at a possible visit to India.

"When I come, I don't want to say if, but when I come to India, hopefully he can join me. We could do a little bit of tennis and a little bit of cricket, have fun, and just spread positive, good vibes while celebrating sport," he said.

He then expressed a strong emotional connect with the country and its fans.

“I’ve been feeling a calling to visit for the last couple of years. I really hope that I’ll be able to come to India… I really wish for that because I feel very close to the Indian people,” Djokovic said, raising hopes of a possible meeting between the two sporting icons.