Now that Virat Kohli has officially stepped away from Test cricket, there might just be more time for another of his passions — golf. Known for his high-octane style on the field and relentless fitness off it, the former India captain has long been a fan of golf, often seen playing during downtime on tours.
Kohli, who played 123 Tests for India and scored over 9,230 runs, has built a legacy on mental discipline, precision and fierce competitiveness — attributes that also make for a good golfer. “Golf is a great sport to calm your mind. I enjoy the mental aspect of it – staying in the moment, focusing on the shot, and letting go of the outcome,” he once said in an interview during a tour of England, where he was spotted playing with teammates on off days.
More Time On The Course
While golf may have started as a recreational escape, it’s clear Kohli takes the game seriously. Videos of his swing during charity pro-ams or practice rounds have been shared widely on social media, showing the same dedication he once applied to hours in the nets.
With Test cricket no longer part of his weekly routine, Kohli may now have the time to further explore golf, either casually or who knows even competitively. “It’s a sport I’d love to keep playing, especially now that I’ll have a little more time between commitments,” he mentioned after announcing his retirement from red-ball cricket.
Staying Grounded
Golf is also helping him stay grounded. “I’m learning to be patient again. You can’t rush things on a golf course – much like in life,” Kohli remarked in a recent podcast.
Whether it’s chasing birdies or perfecting his putting stroke, one thing’s for sure: Kohli isn’t done competing — he’s just doing it on a quieter, greener stage.
