For nearly two decades, Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli has consistently demonstrated what it means to perform under pressure. However, the Indian icon recently revealed that even during the most successful phase of his career, he struggled with the "impostor syndrome". Kohli admitted that despite breaking records, there were moments when he questioned himself, wondering whether he truly belonged at the top.
“As players, you're always walking a very thin line between being cautious and being insecure. You constantly feel like you're never good enough – that imposter syndrome is always there,” Kohli said at RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit.
“Even today, when I go into the nets, I still think: these youngsters are watching. If I have a bad session, they'll probably wonder, 'Is this the guy who's been playing for 20 years?' That thought is always there.”
Meanwhile, Kohli revealed that former India head coach Rahul Dravid and batting coach Vikram Rathour played a crucial role in helping him find the balance during a difficult phase. Kohli credited both Dravid and Rathour for creating a supportive environment that allowed him to recover mentally after he stepped away from captaincy duties. Back in 2021 and 2022, Kohli had encountered a challenging phase, struggling to regain form. However, he made a heroic comeback but not before going through a crushing lean patch.
“I’ve said this many times about Rahul bhai and Vikram Rathour. I had a great phase in Test cricket, and whenever I meet them, I thank them from the bottom of my heart because they took care of me in a way that made me feel like I wanted to play for them,” Kohli said.
“I wanted to perform, grind it out, and do the hard work because they were so caring and nurturing. They reminded me of everything I had done so far – something you never really sit down and think about as a player,” Kohli added .