‘We’ve never met in person’: Novak Djokovic opens up on special bond with Virat Kohli, plans to visit India

New Delhi: With Wimbledon 2026 set to begin on June 29,   is once again preparing for another shot at Grand Slam history. Before turning his full attention to the tournament, the Serbian legend opened up about his connection with India batting star   and revealed that he hopes to visit India in the near future.

Although the two sporting icons have never met in person, Djokovic said they have remained in touch over the past few years through messages and have followed each other’s careers closely. Their mutual admiration has grown despite representing different sports on different continents.

Speaking to Star Sports ahead of Wimbledon, Djokovic said he is looking forward to finally meeting Kohli and even joked about playing both tennis and cricket together during his visit to India.

“We haven’t met in person, we have texted, we have been in touch for the last few years, following each other, supporting each other, admiring each other’s careers. Hopefully I will get a chance to meet him in person and play some tennis, play some cricket. I am also planning to come to India soon, so maybe that’s where we can get the link up,” Djokovic said.

 

Focus shifts to Wimbledon challenge

After sharing his plans off the court, Djokovic’s attention now turns to Wimbledon where he is chasing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam singles title. The 39-year-old heads into the tournament after a disappointing campaign at the French Open and will be eager to bounce back on one of his favourite surfaces.

Djokovic begins his Wimbledon campaign against China’s Wu Yibing in the opening round. He will be expected to start strongly as he looks to add another major title to his remarkable career.

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner is also among the leading contenders for the title and opens his campaign against Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic.

Inspired by Serena Williams’ comeback

Djokovic also spoke about drawing inspiration from Serena Williams, who is set to return to competitive singles tennis at Wimbledon after four years away from the sport.

The American great owns 23 Grand Slam singles titles and has made her comeback with the aim of competing in front of her daughters. Djokovic admitted her return has motivated him and revealed that he reached out to Williams to discuss her decision.

As Wimbledon gets underway, Djokovic will be aiming to make history once again. However, off the court fans in India may be just as excited by the possibility of seeing the Serbian legend finally meet Virat Kohli during his planned visit.

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