
Former India captain Virat Kohli humorously hinted that he might come out of retirement if India reaches the gold medal match at the Olympics, making for an epic one-game comeback.
Kohli was speaking at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit when English broadcaster Isa Guha asked him about cricket’s return to the Olympics in Los Angeles 2028 and whether he’d be open to a return.
Kohli’s Response:
"If we are playing for the gold medal, I may come back for one game (laughs). Get a medal and come back home. To be an Olympic champion would be a magnificent feeling, the first of its kind."
Kohli on IPL’s Role in Cricket’s Olympic Return
Kohli credited the Indian Premier League (IPL) for helping push cricket back into the Olympics.
"So many T20 leagues are played all over the world, and I think that IPL has definitely played a massive role in that as well. It has brought cricket to a stage where it is part of the Olympics. It’s a great opportunity for some of our guys."
With T20 cricket making its debut in Los Angeles 2028, Kohli's comment has sparked excitement among fans, who would love to see him on the Olympic stage.
Kohli’s Post-Retirement Plans?
Kohli also admitted that he has no concrete plans for life after retirement, except for traveling a lot.
"I actually don’t know what I will be doing post-retirement. Recently, I asked a teammate the same question and got the same reply. Yeah, but there may be a lot of traveling."
Retirement Rumors: Will Kohli & Rohit Retire Soon?
Since the start of 2025, speculation has been rife about Kohli and Rohit Sharma's retirement plans.
Many believed they would retire after the 2025 Champions Trophy, but after India’s victory, both laughed off the rumors.
Reports suggest Rohit is eyeing the 2027 ODI World Cup, and Kohli could have the same goal.
What’s Next for Kohli & Team India?
India’s next big challenge is the Test tour of England this summer, a crucial series that will test the team’s red-ball dominance.