PV Sindhu shares how Virat Kohli's guidance transformed her outlook during her toughest times.

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu has recently shared insights into her close relationship with cricket icon Virat Kohli, whom she affectionately refers to as a “brother.” In a candid discussion on the RCB Podcast, Sindhu reflected on the pivotal advice Kohli offered her during a challenging period in her career.

During the podcast, Sindhu recounted a moment when she felt particularly disheartened and approached Kohli, expressing her frustrations by saying, “nothing is happening.” Instead of providing a complex solution, Kohli encouraged her to simply continue showing up for her matches and training sessions, emphasizing the importance of playing her natural game. “He just said that just show up, it is okay, just go out there and just show up,” Sindhu recalled, highlighting the simplicity yet profound impact of his words.

She noted that Kohli’s encouragement shifted her perspective on her struggles. He urged her to trust in her training and to present her true self on the court. “What would happen? You are not going to lose anything, you know what you are, how you have trained and show the world who you are,” Sindhu quoted Kohli, acknowledging how this conversation significantly influenced her outlook.

Sindhu also shared that her bond with Kohli extends beyond their initial conversation. She frequently updates him on her achievements and moments of joy, appreciating the opportunity to learn from someone with such an illustrious career. “Whenever I win, I just share my happiness saying that you know I have won this or that,” she said, expressing her admiration for Kohli’s accomplishments and mindset. “It is always so good to meet a person who has achieved so much and to get a few of those inputs from him,” she added, praising Kohli’s dedication and approach to the game.

As Sindhu competes at the BWF World Championships in New Delhi, where she has already secured a decisive victory in the women’s singles Round of 64, her reflections on her relationship with Kohli provide a glimpse into the camaraderie shared by two of India’s most celebrated athletes.