‘I would love to play some cricket with Virat Kohli’ – Novak Djokovic reveals India visit plans during Wimbledon 2026

Novak Djokovic has revealed plans to visit India and meet Virat Kohli, confirming the two sporting icons have been in regular communication about the trip. The Serbian, currently competing at Wimbledon 2026, has expressed a desire to play cricket with the former India captain and see the country through Kohli’s eyes.

The 39-year-old is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title at this year’s Championships, along with an eighth Wimbledon crown that would equal Roger Federer’s all-time record. He enters the quarter-finals against Felix Auger-Aliassime later today at the All England Club.

“I would love to play some cricket and tennis with Virat Kohli. I am planning to visit India in the near future, and we have been communicating about it. I know Virat is a global star, but especially in India, he is incredible. I would love for him to be my host and show me around,” said Djokovic on JioStar.

Despite cricket having virtually no foothold in his home country, Djokovic has been following the game for over a decade. The seven-time Wimbledon champion is keen for the batting icon to put him through his paces at the crease, and has offered tennis tips in return.

Djokovic on his admiration for Virat Kohli

“So, I have been learning about the game over the last 10 to 15 years. I still need to work on my cricketing skills. Maybe Virat can help me with my technique and bat swing. But seriously, I have great respect and admiration for him. I would love to get the chance to meet him in his home country, India,” he added.

The cross-sport friendship reflects a mutual respect that both athletes have spoken about before. Djokovic and the Indian cricket icon are frequently grouped among the most disciplined sportspeople of their generation, driven by similar standards of fitness and longevity.

Novak Djokovic on his Wimbledon quarter-final plans

His immediate priority is a quarterfinal showdown with Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime on Tuesday, July 7. A win would move Djokovic one step closer to an eighth Wimbledon title and that record-breaking 25th Grand Slam.