Kohli's Dream Come True: RCB Wins Maiden IPL Title
Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bengaluru make history with their first-ever IPL title win. Read about the emotional moments and Kohli's reaction.
Virat Kohli's tough exterior crumbled as he became overwhelmed with emotion after Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally won their first Indian Premier League title. The 36-year-old cricket star led RCB to a thrilling six-run victory over Punjab Kings in the final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. As the last ball was bowled and victory was confirmed, Kohli's emotions overflowed, and he tearfully hugged his wife, Anushka Sharma.
RCB, YOUR 2025 IPL CHAMPIONS! pic.twitter.com/OiaX0guREh
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) June 3, 2025
Kohli dedicated the victory to his wife, Anushka Sharma, acknowledging her unwavering support throughout his career. “What Anushka has gone through emotionally — watching me being down and out, coming to games, being so connected with Bangalore... this is very, very special for her, and she's going to be so, so proud,” Kohli said. He also expressed his gratitude for her sacrifices and commitment, saying it's something that can't be explained in words.
After the win, Kohli reiterated his love for Test cricket, stating it's “five levels above” the IPL. “If you want to earn respect in world cricket, take up Test cricket and give your heart and soul to it,” he advised young players. This win marks a significant milestone in Kohli's career, especially since he announced his retirement from Test cricket during the 2025 IPL season.
ABD and Gayle join the celebrations ❤️ pic.twitter.com/HspRc9SYKD
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) June 3, 2025
As the broadcasters' camera panned, it caught a teary-eyed Virat Kohli covering his mouth with cupped hands in disbelief. After Bengaluru sealed a six-run victory, Kohli hunched over the turf and punched it in delight before being mobbed by teammates. “It's been 18 long years,” an emotional Kohli, still with bloodshot eyes, told the broadcasters.
“I've given this team my youth, my prime and my experience, and I've tried to win this every season...
“To finally have this moment come true, it's an unbelievable feeling. I never thought this day would come. I was overcome with emotions as soon as the last ball was bowled.”
Look what it means to Virat Kohli 🥹🏆pic.twitter.com/hZyNHGpSOE
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) June 3, 2025
Virat Kohli has been with Royal Challengers Bengaluru since the IPL's inaugural season in 2008, even captaining the team for nine seasons. Despite reaching the finals in 2009, 2011, and 2016, Bengaluru lost each time. As Kohli celebrated the team's maiden title, he shared a heartfelt hug with former teammate AB de Villiers. “I've stayed loyal to this team no matter what,” Kohli said, highlighting his unwavering dedication to the franchise.
“I've had moments when I thought otherwise, but I stuck to this team. I stood behind them and they stood behind me.
“I always dreamt of winning it with them, and this is far more special than winning it with anyone else... This is the team I'm going to play for till the last day in IPL.”
Virat Kohli had won multiple World Cups with India, but the IPL title had eluded him until now. “I'm someone that wants to win the big tournaments, the big moments, and this one was missing,” Kohli said. “Tonight, I'm going to sleep like a baby,” he added, expressing his joy and satisfaction after finally achieving his IPL goal.
“There is an end date to our career. By the time that I hang up my boots, I want to sit at home and say 'I gave it everything I had'.”
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