Former India captain Virat Kohli revealed his lesser-known contact with defending Australian Open 2024 winner Novak Djokovic after rejoining the Indian side for the second T20I against Afghanistan on Sunday. At Holkar Cricket Stadium, in the series decider, Kohli will spearhead India's batting attack.
On the eve of India vs. Afghanistan's second Twenty20 International, Kohli spoke to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and recounted his first conversation with Djokovic, who he referred to as his "newest text buddy." For those who are unaware, in the run-up to the Australian Open, record-breaking Grand Slam champion Djokovic recently mentioned Kohli in particular. Kohli, who has maintained communication with the Serb throughout, disclosed that he initially contacted Djokovic via Instagram.
“When I saw Novak Djokovic's profile on Instagram and I pressed the message button organically - then I saw his message already on my DM (Direct Message) since then, we started talking to each other and sending wishes,” Kohli said.
𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲
Virat Kohli 🤝 Novak Djokovic
Two 🐐 🐐, one special bond 💙
Virat Kohli shares the story about his newest "text buddy" 👌👌 - By @ameyatilak#TeamIndia | @imVkohli | @DjokerNole | @AustralianOpen
𝙋.𝙎. - "Hey Novak 👋 - Good luck at AO" pic.twitter.com/PEPQnydwJB— BCCI (@BCCI) January 14, 2024
Djokovic posted an Instagram story for Kohli
Speaking more about his friendship with the Serbian legend, Kohli revealed that Djokovic had given him a unique message following the run-machine's crushing of his 50th century record at the One Day International (ODI) World Cup the previous year.
“When I got 50th ODI Century, Novak Djokovic put a story, sent me a nice message as well so there is mutual admiration and respect - really nice to connect with global athletes,” Kohli added.
Djokovic's remarks regarding Kohli
In an interview with Sony Sports before the Australian Open 2024, Djokovic revealed that he and Kohli had been exchanging texts for a few years. But the legendary players of cricket and tennis were never able to get together in person.
"It was really a privilege and honor to listen to him speak nicely about me and I obviously admire his career and achievement and everything he has done," Djokovic added.
Image source: X(Twitter)/USA global news
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