Virat Kohli’s Test Retirement Sparks Emotional Global Tributes: Novak Djokovic, Wimbledon Among First to React

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Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket has sent ripples through the global sporting community, with tributes pouring in from icons across various disciplines. The 36-year-old Indian cricketer announced his decision on May 12, 2025, bringing an end to a distinguished 14-year career in the longest format of the game.

Kohli's departure follows closely after that of former captain Rohit Sharma, marking a significant transition in Indian cricket. His retirement has elicited heartfelt responses from figures such as Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic, South African cricketer AB de Villiers, and the official Wimbledon Instagram page.

Additionally, Indian cricket officials, including head coach Gautam Gambhir and ICC Chair Jay Shah, have expressed their admiration and respect for Kohli's contributions to the sport.

Novak Djokovic's Tribute

Serbian tennis icon Novak Djokovic extended his congratulations to Virat Kohli on his remarkable Test career. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, took to Instagram to commend Kohli's achievements, describing them as an "incredible innings." The two athletes share a mutual respect, having exchanged messages over social media.

AB de Villiers' Affectionate Message

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers, a long-time friend and former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) teammate of Kohli, shared an affectionate message on social media. Referring to Kohli as "my biscotti," de Villiers praised his determination and skill, calling him a "true legend." Their bond, forged on and off the field, reflects the deep camaraderie shared among cricketing peers.

Wimbledon Honors Kohli's Legacy

The official Wimbledon Instagram page honored Virat Kohli's illustrious Test career with a heartfelt post. Accompanied by the song “Tu Hai To Dil Dhadakne Hai,” the caption read: “Congratulations on a splendid career in white, Virat Kohli 👏 👑.” This gesture underscores the admiration Kohli commands beyond the cricketing world, resonating with sports enthusiasts globally.

Gautam Gambhir's Personal Note

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir, under whom Kohli made significant strides in Test cricket, shared a personal message on social media. Describing Kohli as "a man with lion's passion," Gambhir expressed that he would miss him, referring to him affectionately as "cheeks." This sentiment reflects the close bond and mutual respect between the two cricketers.

Jay Shah's Acknowledgment

ICC Chair Jay Shah took to social media to congratulate Virat Kohli on his stellar Test career. In a rare personal post, Shah thanked Kohli for “championing the purest format during the rise of T20 cricket” and commended his “extraordinary example in discipline, fitness, and commitment.” Shah highlighted Kohli's speech at Lord's, noting that he played Tests with “heart, grit, and pride.”

Virat Kohli's retirement, following closely after that of Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin, signifies a major transition in Indian Test cricket. These departures mark the end of an era, making way for a new generation of players to step into leadership roles. The cricketing community now looks forward to the future of Indian Test cricket, with the upcoming tour to England serving as a significant chapter in this evolving narrative.