India boasts a legacy of extraordinary athletes who have significantly influenced their sports on an international level. From cricket icons to trailblazing track and field stars, these sportsmen have brought great pride to the nation. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 renowned sportsmen of India up to 2024.

1. Virat Kohli – Cricket

Virat Kohli, often dubbed the “Run Machine,” has been an integral figure in Indian cricket. As the former captain of the Indian national team, Kohli has set numerous records, including the fastest century by an Indian in ODIs and the quickest to reach 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, and 12,000 runs in ODIs. His aggressive batting style and leadership qualities have made him one of the most celebrated cricketers globally.

2. Sunil Gavaskar – Cricket

Sunil Gavaskar, known as one of the greatest opening batsmen in cricket history, dominated the sport in the 1970s and 1980s. He was the first player to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket and held the record for the most Test centuries (34) until it was broken by Sachin Tendulkar. Gavaskar’s technique and determination laid the foundation for future Indian cricketers.

3. Sachin Tendulkar – Cricket

Sachin Tendulkar, often hailed as the “God of Cricket,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the sport. With a career spanning 24 years, Tendulkar holds numerous records, including the most runs in both Test and ODI cricket. His contribution to Indian cricket has been monumental, inspiring countless young cricketers.

4. Milkha Singh – Athletics

Milkha Singh, also known as “The Flying Sikh,” is one of India’s most celebrated track and field athletes. He won gold medals at the 1958 and 1962 Asian Games and narrowly missed a bronze medal in the 400 meters at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Milkha Singh’s achievements have been a source of inspiration for generations of Indian athletes.

5. PT Usha – Athletics

Pilavullakandi Thekkeparambil Usha, commonly known as PT Usha, is often referred to as the “Queen of Indian Track and Field.” She dominated Indian athletics in the 1980s and 1990s, winning numerous medals at the Asian Games and Asian Championships. Usha’s near-miss for a bronze medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics remains one of the most memorable moments in Indian sports history.