Tennis legend Novak Djokovic's old video of hailing former India captain Virat Kohli has gone viral on social media. Kohli turned up with his wife Anushka Sharma to watch Djokovic's Wimbledon Round of 16 clash against Alex de Minaur. During the Australian Open 2024, Djokovic had revealed that the two have been texting each other for a few years but never met in person.
"Virat Kohli and I have been texting a little bit for a few years and we never got the chance to meet in person, but it was really a privilege and an honour to listen to him speak nicely about me," said Djokovic who reached the Wimbledon quarterfinal for the 16th time, breaking legendary Roger Federer's record.
"I obviously admire all of his career and achievements and everything he has done," he added.
Djokovic beat Australia's De Minaur 1-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 who was 11th seeded in the tournament. Kohli lauded Djokovic in his Instagram post: "What a match. It was business as usual for the gladiator (Clap emojis)"
Djokovic had said that he will have to perfect his cricket skills before going to India to avoid any embarrassment.
"I started to play cricket. I'm not very good at it, but you know, obviously cricket being a very big, big sport in Australia and of course India... You know, let's say that I'll have a task to perfect my cricket skills before I get to India so that I don't embarrass myself when I'm there," the 38-year-old further added.
When Djokovic played cricket with Smith and watched a BBL game
Djokovic may be embarrassed with his cricket skills but he has seen a few cricket matches and interacted with a few star players as well. In 2024, Djokovic was in Australia where he bowled to Steve Smith at the Rod Laver Arena during the 'Novak and Friends' charity event. He hit the ball into the stands as well.
Also, during the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25, he witnessed the match between Melbourne derby at Docklands Stadium. He was left stunned when Melbourne Stars' Marcus Stoinis hit the ball into the night sky but was caught by Melbourne Renegades' Kane Richardson at the boundary.