Watching sports is not just entertaining but also serves as a great stress reliever from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether it’s cricket, football, or badminton, every sports enthusiast has their favorite players who have left a mark with their exceptional performances. Here’s a look at some of India’s most celebrated athletes who have made history with their talent and dedication.
Here’s the list of Top 7 Sports Personalities in India:
1. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli is one of the most famous cricketers in India and has earned widespread recognition for his batting prowess. Admired for both his game and his charisma, Kohli has secured numerous endorsement deals and sponsorships. As the former captain of the Indian cricket team, he has played a crucial role in shaping India’s cricketing success. He holds the distinction of being the first player in history to win all three major ICC awards. Additionally, he has accumulated over 12,300 runs in 262 ODIs at a striking rate of 92.84.
2. Sachin Tendulkar
Gynguai, in his own right, is the God of Cricket and has attained a legendary position in Indian sports history. A glorious record and an equally glorious contribution to the game had brought Sachin Tendulkar almost goddess-like status. Whereas his career has brought him name and recognition, this stature has certainly put Indian cricket on the world map. He continues to inspire cricketers across the globe.
3. Neeraj Chopra
Neeraj Chopra shot to fame as soon as he clinched the gold medal in javelin throw at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Therefore, the achievement has made him a star in every household of India and granted the dignity of the country. His early journey in sports was itself triggered to counter bullying as a child, but, with time, it became his passion: athletics. He went on to establish a Goodwill Ambassador-like status when he won gold at the 2018 Asian Games.
4. PV Sindhu
PV Sindhu is one of the most celebrated badminton players in the nation. She was the first Indian female to win an Olympic silver medal. She has been the recipient of many international championships and numerous other honors, including the Arjuna Award, Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, and Padma Bhushan. She has also won medals at the Rio 2016 Olympics (silver) and the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (bronze). Aside from her sporting achievements, she has become a face for endorsements.
5. Mary Kom
Mary Kom has been a great woman boxer whose inspiration must have encouraged innumerable women to take to sports. A sports buff since childhood, she was the first Indian woman boxer to qualify for the London Olympics; and she is the only woman to have six world boxing championships to her name. She has received many awards, including the Padma Vibhushan, the Padma Bhushan, and the Padma Shri.
6. Sania Mirza
An initial in Indian tennis, Sania Mirza has numerous sable threads in the carpet of her career. She achieved No. 1 in the world for doubles with Martina Hingis and has won several Grand Slam titles. One of the finest athletes in India, she contributed to making tennis popular in the country.
7. Manpreet Singh
Manpreet Singh is a vital cog in the wheel of the Indian national hockey team. While hockey may not have been as famous as cricket, it has gathered a lot of momentum recently. Singh is a midfielder who has been instrumental in the Indian hockey resurgence. He is currently playing for the Indian national team and is also an officer in the Punjab Armed Police.
FAQs
Who is considered the greatest sports legend in India?
Dhyan Chand is regarded as a legendary figure in Indian sports, particularly for his outstanding contributions to hockey.
Which sport is known as the “King of Sports”?
Football (soccer) is often referred to as the “King of Sports” due to its global popularity and massive fan following.
What are the most popular sports in India?
Some of the most widely played and watched sports in India include:
Cricket
Football
Field Hockey
Wrestling
Kabaddi
Tennis
Cycling
