Watch: Novak Djokovic reveals he started following Virat Kohli during IPL 2026

It has not been the first time that Virat Kohli has influenced someone from another sport to take an interest in cricket and become fully invested in the game between bat and ball. And the 24-time Grand Slam Champion, Novak Djokovic, is the new member of the list, having expressed the same.  

During the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kohli has been in fine form with the bat, with the franchise currently in second position on the points table, having won four out of five clashes. 

Djokovic’s statement on Kohli grabs global attention

Novak Djokovic has highlighted his relationship with Kohli, as he revealed the former Indian captain played a massive role in introducing him to the cricket game.

“Yes, Virat is a friend and someone I, of course, respect and admire. He is actually, to be honest, the reason why I started following cricket. When I come to India, hopefully he can join, and then we could do a little bit of tennis, a little bit of cricket, and have fun and just spread positive, good vibes with people and celebrate sport.” The veteran revealed in a recent interaction.

Watch the video here: 

Kohli is currently the third leading run-getter of the IPL 2026 with 247 runs in six innings at an average of 49.40 and a strike rate of 157.32 with the help of two half-centuries at the best score of unbeaten 69 runs.

Tennis legend praises Kohli’s passion and consistency

The Tennis legend also remains hopeful of making his trip to India in the near future. He, however, acknowledged the uncertainties at this stage of his career.

“My message is always love, respect, and appreciation, first of all, for all the support over the years that I’ve personally been receiving from all the Indian tennis fans and Indian sports fans around the world.  The message would also be: see you very soon in India, because I need to go to India. I’ve been feeling a calling to come for the last couple of years.” Djokovic added.

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“I really hope that I’ll be able to come to India and do an event, play a match, or whatever it is. I really wish for that because I feel very close to Indian people. I am looking forward to it. I think it’s a very long way, two years, for me at this stage of my career and life, but you never know.” The legendary player addressed.

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