Even in a room full of people, I felt alone: Virat Kohli

Kohli opened up on the importance of mental well-being

Former India captain Virat Kohli has recently opened up on the importance of focusing on mental health and physical well-being, especially for young athletes who are under constant pressure for different reasons. 

Kohli has been struggling for consistency and has failed to score a century in any format of the game since November 2019. Once regarded as a 'run-machine' has been under scrutiny for his wretched form with the bat. 

After a dreadful England tour, Kohli decided to take some break before Asia Cup 2022 and missed the recent West Indies tour and is also set to miss out on the upcoming Zimbabwe ODI series as well. 

On being asked how he sustains his mental well-being despite all the constant pressure and criticism surrounding him, Kohli told The Indian Express in an interview:

“For an athlete, the sport can bring the best out of you as a player but at the same time, the amount of pressure that you are constantly under can affect your mental health negatively. It is definitely a serious issue and as much as we try to be strong at all times, it can tear you apart."

"Keep in touch with your inner self" – Kohli

Kohli against Pakistan in World T20

The swashbuckling batter further offered advice to young athletes, saying it's important to keep in touch with one's inner self while focusing on physical fitness and mental well-being.  

“My tips to aspiring athletes would be that yes, physical fitness and focus on recovery is the key to being a good athlete, but at the same time, it is crucial to consistently keep in touch with your inner self,” the former Indian captain added.

Kohli further cited his own example and said he has personally gone through a tough time in his life, adding he had felt alone, at times, despite being in a room full of people.

"I personally have experienced times when even in a room full of people who support and love me, I felt alone, and I am sure that this is a feeling that a lot of people can relate to."

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