Virat Kohli Calls For Nationwide Support As Indian Athletes Gear Up For Paris Olympics

Virat Kohli released a video on Monday, urging the nation to support Indian athletes participating in the Paris Olympics starting July 26. The former India captain, currently in London with his family after winning the T20 World Cup 2024, highlighted India's evolving global image.

Kohli mentioned that India is no longer just known for snake charmers and elephants. He emphasised that India is now recognised as the largest democracy and a global tech hub. "We are known for cricket and Bollywood, for start-up unicorns and as the fastest growing economy in the world," he said.

In a social media video featuring athletes like Neeraj Chopra and Nishant Dev, Kohli expressed his hope for India to be seen as a global sporting powerhouse. "There was a time when the world could only think of India as a land of snake charmers and elephants. Over time, that has changed," he stated.

Kohli called on Indian sports fans to back the 118-strong group of athletes aiming to surpass the country's best performance of seven medals from Tokyo. "Our brothers and sisters are headed to Paris, hungry for medals," he said. He urged everyone to remember their faces and cheer them on.

"Every neighbourhood, every corner of India will hear a chorus of voices chanting 'India, India, India'. Join me in remembering their faces as they inch closer to the podium with the dogged determination of waving the Tiranga with pride. Jai Hind and good luck India," Kohli added.

Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 15, 2024

Athletes' Preparation

Most Indian competitors are currently training abroad and will head to Paris from their respective bases. India's medal hopes rest on shooting, badminton, wrestling, boxing, and another podium finish from Chopra, who made history with his javelin throw gold in Tokyo.

Kohli's appeal aims to unite the nation behind its athletes as they strive for success at the Paris Olympics. His message underscores India's potential to achieve more gold, silver, and bronze medals on the global stage.