'When I needed someone, he was there': PV Sindhu recalls Kohli's role in comeback
Badminton star PV Sindhu credits Virat Kohli for providing emotional support during her recovery from a serious toe injury in 2025. This guidance helped her return to form and eventually win the Japan Open.
Why it matters
The story highlights the intersection of mental health, athlete mentorship, and the high-pressure world of professional sports.
PV Sindhu has opened up on how a conversation with Virat Kohli helped her overcome one of the most difficult phases of her career following a serious injury in 2025, eventually inspiring a remarkable comeback that culminated in a historic Japan Open title.The two-time Olympic medallist suffered a torn toe ligament during training in September 2025, forcing her to cut short her season and focus entirely on rehabilitation. Under the supervision of renowned sports orthopaedist Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Sindhu underwent three months of complete rest followed by an extensive rehabilitation programme.During that challenging period, Sindhu, accompanied by her husband Venkata Datta Sai, reached out to Kohli seeking guidance.
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