Virat Kohli retired from T20I cricket in June 2024 after leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup in Barbados. However, on Saturday, he hinted at a possible return if India reaches the final at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Cricket will return to the Summer Games after 128 years. Previously, the sport was last played in the Olympics in 1900.

Kohli’s Popularity Helped Cricket Enter the Olympics

Interestingly, Kohli’s massive social media following played a key role in cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics. Niccolo Campriani, president of the LA Local Organising Committee (LALOG), highlighted this impact.

"We all recognize the critical importance of a strong digital presence in order to keep the games relevant for the youth. And cricket is offering a unique platform to do so," Campriani said. Furthermore, he added, "Think [about] my friend here, Virat. He's the third-most followed athlete in the world on social media with 314 million followers (387 million as of writing across Instagram, Facebook, and X). That's more than LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Tiger Woods combined. This is the ultimate win-win for LA 28."

Kohli Jokes About a Comeback

Since the Olympics will feature a T20 format, both Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not be part of the Indian squad. After all, both retired from T20Is in 2024. However, Kohli jokingly suggested he might return for one last match if India reaches the gold medal game.

"If we are playing the gold medal match, I might sneak in for one game.. get a medal and come back home," he told Isa Guha at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit in Bengaluru.

Kohli Excited About Cricket’s Olympic Return

Meanwhile, Kohli expressed his happiness about cricket’s return to the Olympics. The decision was officially announced in October 2023. Notably, the event will feature both men’s and women’s T20 tournaments.

"When I heard the news, I was happy. The T20 leagues that are played all over the world, including the IPL (Indian Premier League), have played a massive role. It's a great opportunity. Getting to be Olympic champions would be a great thing. The first of its kind. I am sure we will be somewhere close to the medal," Kohli said.