Virat Kohli Hails Michael Jordan as Inspiration, Recalls Childhood Admiration

Virat Kohli, the star Indian batter, has expressed his admiration for American basketball legend Michael Jordan, citing his on-court intensity and unwavering determination as sources of inspiration. Kohli, who is currently participating in the ICC T20 World Cup, recalled his childhood fascination with Jordan's matches in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

"I used to love watching Kobe Bryant play as well," Kohli said, "but the time that I saw Michael Jordan play, I clearly remember there used to be the early morning basketball games that used to be aired on ESPN in India. And I used to be up quite early to go to cricket practice. So I would always catch all of those games."

Kohli was particularly drawn to Jordan's body language and competitive spirit. "Just watching him play, it was just a real natural connect with his body language, with the way he moved on the court and just his personality," he said. "And that, you know, you could see on his face the intensity and the will to win. And I just immediately connected."

Kohli's admiration for Jordan extended beyond his on-court performances. He recalled marking the Chicago Bulls' game schedule in the newspaper and making sure he was awake to watch them play. "There was magic in every game that he played," Kohli said. "There was something or the other happening. So for me, that was a very strong core memory and something that I still hold very dearly."

Jordan, who played for the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards during his illustrious career, is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He won six NBA Championship titles, six NBA Finals Most Valuable Player awards, and five NBA MVP awards.

Kohli's admiration for Jordan is a testament to the global reach and impact of sports icons. Despite playing different sports in different countries, Kohli and Jordan share a common passion for excellence and a relentless pursuit of victory.

Tags: #ViratKohli, #MichaelJordan, #NBA, #Basketball, #Inspiration