After 18 seasons, Royal Challengers Bangalore finally lifted the IPL trophy — and the moment triggered emotional scenes all across the field and from fans. As RCB sealed a historic win over Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, an emotional Virat Kohli turned the spotlight on wife Anushka Sharma, thanking her for the quiet strength and sacrifices that helped him stay focused through the highs and lows.
Kohli spoke about how deeply Anushka Sharma has been involved in his journey with RCB. Having supported the team since 2014, her connection to both the franchise and the city of Bangalore runs deep, Kohli said while speaking to Star Sports. “It’s been 11 years for her as well, you know. Relentlessly coming to games, watching tough games, watching us just miss out,” he said.
Kohli was seen breaking down while hugging Anushka Sharma after RCB’s IPL win. The heartfelt moment made the fans go completely in awe of the duo.
Kohli reflected on the emotional toll the game takes not just on players but also on their families. He pointed out how Anushka stood by him through the ups and downs, attending matches year after year, sharing in the heartbreaks and near-misses. Her constant support and quiet sacrifices, he said, allowed him to stay focused and committed on the field.
“What your life partner does for you to be able to play, and the sacrifices, and the commitment, and just backing you through thick and thin, is something you can’t explain in words,” Kohli said.
He also acknowledged how tough the past years have been, especially during seasons when RCB fell short. He said there were moments when he had lost hope of ever lifting the IPL 2025 trophy and that watching him struggle during those times wasn’t easy for Anushka either, but she never stopped believing.
“What Anushka has gone through emotionally, watching me, being down and out, her coming to games, being so connected with Bangalore, she’s a Bangalore girl also, and being connected to RCB, this is very, very special for her as well, and she’s going to be so, so proud,” he said.
Kohli said that now since the dream had finally come true, the victory means just as much to her.
