Sakshi Chaudhary's gold medal triumph at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow was the culmination of years of perseverance, resilience, and timely support during one of the most challenging phases of her boxing career.
According to The Economic Times, the Haryana boxer overcame injuries, adapted to a new weight category, and relied on a strong support system that included financial and motivational backing from the Virat Kohli Foundation.
Following her gold medal-winning performance, Sakshi reflected on the journey that brought her to the top of the podium. According to The Economic Times, she credited former India captain Virat Kohli for standing by her when her boxing career faced uncertainty, saying his support extended far beyond financial sponsorship.
Speaking to IANS after her victory, Sakshi thanked Kohli for believing in her potential during a crucial stage of her career. According to The Economic Times, the boxer said the assistance she received from the Virat Kohli Foundation helped her stay focused on training and continue pursuing her dreams despite the setbacks she encountered.
"He was my sponsor," Sakshi said, adding that Kohli's contribution was not limited to financial assistance but also served as a source of motivation during difficult times.
According to The Economic Times, Sakshi revealed that although another Indian sporting icon had inspired her to take up boxing, Virat Kohli later became an important influence in her professional journey by supporting her when she needed it the most.
Her road to Commonwealth Games success was far from straightforward. According to The Economic Times, Sakshi battled injuries and also had to adjust after moving to a different weight category before eventually finding success on one of the biggest stages in international sport.
The gold medal marked a significant achievement not only for Sakshi but also for Indian boxing. According to The Economic Times, her victory contributed to India's remarkable campaign in Glasgow, where Indian boxers delivered one of their strongest-ever performances by securing seven gold medals across various categories.
Sakshi's story also highlights the importance of strong support systems in elite sport. According to The Economic Times, financial backing, encouragement from mentors, and belief from established sporting personalities can play a crucial role in helping athletes overcome setbacks and continue competing at the highest level.
Her Commonwealth Games gold now stands as a testament to years of dedication, determination, and resilience. Alongside her own hard work, Sakshi Chaudhary acknowledged the people who believed in her journey—including Virat Kohli—whose support helped her navigate difficult moments on the path to becoming a Commonwealth Games champion.