Introduction
Virat Kohli is an Indian cricketer and former captain of the Indian Cricket Team. A top-order right-handed batsman, Kohli is considered one of the world’s greatest batsmen. He is the world’s top-ranked ODI batsman and had been on the Test rankings “leading player”.
He is also the only Indian athlete to be featured in “The Forbes 100 World’s Highest-Paid Athletes” list of 2020 with a total worth of a whopping $16 million.
Virat is also among the richest athletes in 2022. With a reported net worth of $33 million or Rs 2680 crore, he has ranked 61st on the list of richest athletes in the world in 2022.
Family
Growing up in a Punjabi family, Virat was introduced to cricket at a tender age. His father, Prem Kohli, worked as a criminal lawyer, while his mother, Saroj Kohli, is a homemaker. Virat has an elder brother, Vikas, and an elder sister, Bhavna. The Kohli family has been a pillar of support throughout his illustrious career.
| Father | Late Prem Kohli |
| Mother | Saroj Kohli |
| Brother | Vikas Kohli |
| Sister | Bhavna Kohli |
| Wife | Anushka Sharma |
| Daughter | Vamika Kohli |
| Age | 36 Years |
| Nickname | Chiku |
| Date of Birth | 5 November 1988 |
| Zodiac sign | Scorpio |
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Cricketing Career
Kohli’s cricketing journey commenced with the Delhi Under-15 team in 2002. His exceptional talent soon saw him captaining the Indian team to victory in the 2008 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. This achievement paved the way for his debut in One Day Internationals (ODIs) against Sri Lanka in August 2008.
Personal Life
In December 2017, Virat Kohli married Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in a private ceremony in Italy. The couple welcomed their daughter, Vamika, in January 2021. Despite their public profiles, they have maintained a balance between their personal and professional lives, often sharing glimpses of their family moments on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
Education
Virat started his school education at Vishal Bharti Public School, Delhi, and later took admission to Saviour Convent School to focus on his cricket passion and continue with his practice.
Height & Weight
| Height (Centimeters) | 175 cm, 1.75 m |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches |
| Weight (Kilograms) | 69 kg |
| Chest | 40 Inches |
| Waist | 30 Inches |
| Biceps | 14 Inches |
| Shoe size | 10 Inches |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye’s Color | Dark Brown |
Career Achievements
- As captain won the Under-19 cricket world cup in 2008.
- Made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka in 2008.
- Made his international T20 debut against Zimbabwe in 2010.
- Indian team won the ICC cricket world cup in 2011.
- Made his international test debut against West Indies in 2011.
- At the age of 24, became vice-captain of the Indian cricket team in 2012.
- Became ICC ODI Player of the Year in 2012.
- Became No. 1 batsman in ODI rankings in 2013.
- At the age of 26, became the test captain of the Indian cricket team.
- Became ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2017.
- At the age of 29, became captain of the ODI cricket team in 2017.
- Holds the record of 7 double tons in test matches.
- Surpassed Don Bradman for scoring the most number of 150+ runs in test matches.
- Only Indian with a batting average of 50 in the T20 format.
- Most successful Indian Test Captain with 31 wins.
- Indian captain with the most number of overseas wins (13) in test cricket.
- First batsman to score 20,000 runs in 10 years in international cricket.
- Fastest batsman to score 10,000 runs in ODI cricket.
- In 2016, he launched his biography “Driven: The Virat Kohli Story” written by Vijay Lokapally at New Delhi.
- In March 2021, he became the first Asian celebrity with more than 100 million followers on Instagram.
Favorites
| Actor | Robert Downey Jr, Aamir Khan. |
| Actress | Kareena Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai |
| Movie | Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, 3 Idiots |
| Food | Lamb Chops, Sushi and rajma chowal |
| Color | Blue, Red |
| Car | Aston Martin |
| Singer | Eminem |
Girlfriend/ Affairs
His first girlfriend’s name was Tamannaah Bhatia. He started dating her in 2012 and they both were spotted together many times. But later they both separated.
In 2013, Virat started dating Brazilian model “Izabelle Leite”. They both also spend 1 year together including a trip to Singapore, but they too broke up later.
Then, Anushka Sharma came into the life of Virat. They both met each other through Ranveer Singh. They both started liking each other and decided to marry in Florence, Italy in 2017. The couple is known by the name “Virushka”.
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Net Worth
Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, has amassed significant wealth through his illustrious career and various business ventures. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at ₹1,050 crores, positioning him among the highest-paid athletes globally.
Net Worth Breakdown
Kohli’s income streams are diverse, encompassing his cricket salary, endorsements, and business investments.
- Cricket Salary: As a premier player for the Indian national team and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, Kohli earns substantial match fees and retainers.
- Endorsements: With a massive social media following, including 271 million Instagram followers, Kohli commands significant sums for brand promotions, charging approximately ₹11.45 crore per Instagram post.
- Business Ventures: Kohli has invested in various brands and startups, including his fashion line Wrogn and a partnership with Puma for the One8 brand.
Car Collection
Kohli’s passion for luxury automobiles is evident in his extensive car collection, featuring high-end models from brands like Audi, Bentley, and Land Rover.
| Car Model | Estimated Price (INR) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Audi R8 LMX | 2.97 Crore | Limited edition sports car with a 5.2-liter V10 engine, 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. |
| Audi A8 L W12 | 1.98 Crore | Luxury sedan powered by a 6.3-liter W12 engine, offering premium comfort and performance. |
| Audi Q7 | 80 Lakh | Full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior and advanced features. |
| Bentley Continental GT | 3.29 Crore | High-performance luxury coupe with a 6.0-liter W12 engine. |
| Range Rover Vogue | 2.26 Crore | Premium SUV favored for its off-road capabilities and luxurious amenities. |
| Toyota Fortuner | 37.58 Lakh | Reliable SUV known for its durability and performance. |
| Renault Duster | 13 Lakh | Compact SUV awarded to Kohli for his performance in the 2012 Micromax Cup. |
Kohli’s association with Audi as a brand ambassador is reflected in his preference for their models, including the limited edition Audi R8 LMX and the luxurious Audi A8 L W12.
In addition to his Audi collection, Kohli owns a Bentley Continental GT, known for its blend of performance and luxury, and a Range Rover Vogue, which offers a combination of off-road capability and comfort.
His collection also includes practical models like the Toyota Fortuner and Renault Duster, showcasing his appreciation for reliable and versatile vehicles.
Virat Kohli’s impressive net worth and exquisite car collection reflect his success both on and off the cricket field, highlighting his business acumen and passion for luxury automobiles.
Virat Kohli Tattoos
Virat Kohli, the renowned Indian cricketer, has adorned his body with several tattoos, each holding personal significance and reflecting his beliefs, experiences, and milestones. Below is a table detailing his tattoos, their locations, and their meanings:
| Tattoo | Location | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| God’s Eye | Left Shoulder | Symbolizes divine guidance and the belief that a higher power is always watching over him. |
| Japanese Samurai | Left Upper Arm | Represents the Samurai’s code of loyalty, self-discipline, and ethical conduct, inspiring strength and self-control. |
| Parents’ Names | Left Forearm | “Prem” and “Saroj” are inked to honor his father and mother, signifying his close bond and respect for his parents. |
| 175 and 269 | Left Upper Arm | These numbers denote his ODI (175) and Test (269) cap numbers, marking his debut in One Day Internationals and Test matches for India. |
| Scorpio Symbol | Right Bicep | Represents his zodiac sign, reflecting traits like passion, determination, and intensity. |
| Tribal Art | Right Forearm | Signifies strength, aggression, and creativity, mirroring his on-field persona. |
| Lord Shiva | Left Forearm | Depicts Lord Shiva meditating on Mount Kailash near Lake Mansarovar, symbolizing his faith and inner peace. |
| Om Symbol | Left Shoulder | The sacred Hindu symbol “Om” signifies spiritualism and the realization of his destined path, reinforcing his belief that his journey is not random. |
| Monastery | Left Shoulder Blade | Represents a place of peace and power, offering a sanctuary amidst the chaos of life. |
| ‘V’ Initial | Right Hand | The initial of his own name, symbolizing self-identity and personal pride. |
| ‘M’ Initial | Left Hand | Represents his mother’s name, Saroj, as ‘M’ is derived from ‘Mata,’ honoring his maternal bond. |
| Eye of Horus | Left Arm | An ancient Egyptian symbol of protection, royal power, and good health, reflecting his desire for safeguarding and well-being. |
| Geometric Patterns | Left Arm | Intricate designs symbolizing the interconnectedness of all things, stability, and structure, inspiring a sense of unity with the universe. |
Who Supports him For Cricket?
His dad supported his cricket training during his adolescence and after he passed away in 2006, his mother supported him.
His Mumbai House
After the marriage, everyone first decides where they would spend their honeymoon, followed by a home to live in. Virushka chose Worli, Mumbai as their home destination and bought a luxurious flat by developer Omkar Realtors and Developers residential project, Omkar ‘1973’ at a whopping amount of INR 34 crores. The apartment is 7,171 square feet in size and is Arabian sea-facing and is located in the C-tower complex.
Social Media Instagram
He is available on Instagram and has a massive fan following of more than 60 million people.
List of Awards
Virat has been honored with the following awards.
| Awards | Year | |
| Padma Shri | 2017 | |
| Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World | 2016, 2017, 2018 | |
| Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna | 2018 | |
| CNN-IBN Indian of the Year | 2017 | |
| CNN-IBN Indian of the Year Popular Choice Award | 2017 | |
| Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy | 2017, 2018 | |
| Wisen Cricketers of the Year | 2019 | |
| Choice Awards India for Favorite Sportsperson | 2012 | |
| ICC ODI Player of the year | 2012, 2017, 2018 | |
| ICC ODI team of the Year (Player) | 2012, 2014 | |
| ICC ODI team of the Year (Captain) | 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 | |
| ICC Test team of the Year (Captain) | 2017, 2018, 2019 | |
| ICC Test Player of the Year | 2018 | |
| Arjuna Award for Cricket | 2013 | |
| ICC Spirit of the Cricket | 2019 | |
| Polly Umrigar Award | 2011-12, 2014-15, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18 | |
| Barmy Army Player of the Year | 2017, 2018 | |
| ICC Men’s Player of the Month October 2022 | 2022 |
Philanthropy
Philanthropy and Social Responsibility
Virat Kohli Foundation & Charity Work
Kohli’s influence extends beyond the cricket pitch through his philanthropic efforts:
- Virat Kohli foundation: This organization works toward improving the lives of underprivileged children through education and sports.
- Virat Kohli charity work: He is actively involved in charitable initiatives, contributing significant funds and time.
- Virat Kohli donations & charity events: Regularly participating in charity events, he uses his platform to make a difference.
His efforts in philanthropy demonstrate a commitment to giving back to the community, further enhancing his legacy as not just a cricket legend but also a compassionate leader.
VKF also owns All Heart Football Club and Virat played as captain during the event “Celebrity Clasico” in 2017 to raise funds.
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Career Highlights & Records
International Career Stats (as of October 2023)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 111 | 8,676 | 49.29 | 29 | 254* |
| ODI | 279 | 13,016 | 57.32 | 47 | 183 |
| T20 | 115 | 4,008 | 52.73 | 1 | 122* |
Indian Premier League (IPL) Journey
In the IPL, Kohli has been a cornerstone for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) since its inception in 2008. He holds the record for the most runs in the tournament, amassing over 8,000 runs. Notably, in the 2016 season, he scored a staggering 973 runs, the highest in a single season.
On Magazine Cover
- GQ
- MW
- ELLE Man
- ESPN
- India Today
- FilmFare
- Forbes India
- Wisden
- Cricket Today
- Men’s Health
- Sportstar
- Hello!
- LeCITY Deluxe
- Style
Fitness & Diet Plan
Workout Routine
- Daily Training: 2-hour gym sessions focusing on strength, agility, and endurance.
- Key Exercises: Deadlifts, squats, sprints, and yoga.
Diet Plan
- High-Protein: Quinoa, lentils, grilled chicken.
- No Sugar or Processed Foods: Follows a strict gluten-free diet.
Key Achievements:
- Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, 12,000, and 13,000 ODI runs.
- Most centuries in run-chases (26).
- Only cricketer with 50+ averages in all formats.
Captaincy
- Led India in 213 matches (2013–2022) with a 63% win rate.
- Records: First Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia (2018–19).
As Brand Ambassador
Virat is also endorsing products of many brands and companies.
- Manyavar
- Puma
- Audi
- Tissot
- Wrogn
- Uber
- Boost Energy
- MuveAcoustics
- MRF tires
- Gionee
- Bluestar
- Too Yumm
- Colgate
- Hero MotoCorp
- Philips
- IQOO
- Vicks India
- MX TakaTak
- American Tourister
- Valvoline
- Royal Challenge
- Digit Insurance
- Sun Pharma
- Remit 2
- Punjab National Bank
- Himalaya men’s face wash
- MPL
- Myntra
- Shyam Steel
- Toothsi
Investments
Huge success also brought a huge amount of money to him. He has no dearth of money and he has made sure to keep earning even after his retirement from cricket by investing in various commercial options, listed below :
- Launched a fashion brand, WROGN in 2014 and partnered with Myntra and Shopper’s Stop to sell men’s casual wear.
- Started a chain of gyms and fitness centers named Chisel, in 2015 by investing Rs 900 million.
- Became co-owner of Indian Super League (ISL) club “FC Goa” in 2014.
- Became co-owner of “Bengaluru Yodhas” in the Pro Wrestling League in 2015.
- Became co-owner of “UAE Royals”, a team that plays in the International Premier Tennis League, in 2015.
- Invested in “Blue Tribe”, a plant-based meat company, with his wife Anushka Sharma in February 2022.
Some Other Facts
- In 2003, he met with Ashish Nehra in his academy.
- listed in Lord’s Non-Honours board XI in 2020.
- He always wears Kada in his all matches.
- He is scared of heights.
- His restaurant name is “Nueva”.
Final Words
Virat Kohli’s journey from a budding cricketer in Delhi to an international superstar exemplifies passion, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. His contributions to cricket, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring millions worldwide.