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Virat Kohli will also be remembered as one of the greatest Test captains. (AFP Photo)
In a move that marks the end of an era, Virat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, just ahead of the much-anticipated England series. Known for his unparalleled drive, fierce competitiveness, and transformational leadership, the 36-year-old departs the longest format of the game with a glowing record: 123 Tests, 9,230 runs, 30 centuries, and 31 half-centuries, averaging a stellar 48.7. As fans celebrate a remarkable Test career, Kohli’s story off the pitch is equally awe-inspiring—a tale of smart investments, luxe living, and empire building that cements his legacy far beyond cricket.
From Pitch to Portfolio: Kohli’s Soaring Net Worth
Virat Kohli isn’t just one of the greatest batters of his generation—he’s also among the richest. With an estimated net worth of ₹1,050 crore (approx. $127 million), according to Sportskeeda, Kohli has mastered the art of turning fame into fortune. In 2022, Sportico listed him among the top 100 highest-paid athletes globally, with annual earnings of $33.3 million.
Power Paycheques and Record-Breaking Endorsements
Kohli earns about ₹7 crore annually under his BCCI contract and a hefty ₹15.25 crore from his IPL stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2024. His brand power, however, takes things to another level. He reportedly charges ₹11.45 crore per Instagram post, placing him among the top 20 most-followed personalities globally.
He’s the face of leading brands such as Puma, Myntra, Hero MotoCorp, Audi, Tissot, Luxor, Too Yumm, Volini, and Noise. Kohli’s influence has outpaced even Bollywood megastars—Kroll’s Celebrity Brand Valuation Report 2023 pegged his brand value at $227.9 million (₹1,900 crore), beating the likes of Shah Rukh Khan and Ranveer Singh.
The Business Empire: Startups, Fashion, Tech, and Food
Kohli’s sharp business acumen is reflected in his diverse portfolio of investments and entrepreneurial ventures:
One8: An athleisure label and restaurant chain (One8 Commune) in partnership with Puma.
WROGN: A youth-centric fashion brand that also sponsors IPL team RCB.
Digit Insurance: Along with Anushka Sharma, he invested ₹2.2 crore in this now-leading insurance player.
Chisel Fitness: A ₹90-crore investment in fitness centres across India.
Rage Coffee: Kohli backed the brand in 2022 to expand its product lines.
Hyperice: A wellness-tech startup offering recovery and mobility solutions.
Blue Tribe: A plant-based meat brand invested in with Anushka Sharma.
Universal Sportsbiz: A fashion company where he invested ₹19.3 crore.
Nueva: A South American restaurant in Delhi co-owned with Anushka.
FC Goa: Holds a 12% stake in the Indian Super League football club.
Galactus Funware: Invested in the gaming start-up behind MPL.
Sports Convo: A sports-focused social media platform co-owned with Gareth Bale.
Team Blue Rising: Competes in the E1 electric boat racing league.
Real Estate Royalty: Homes Worth Crores
Kohli and Anushka Sharma own a swanky ₹34-crore sea-facing apartment in Mumbai’s posh Worli area, where they live with their daughter Vamika and son Akaay. The couple also purchased an 8-acre farmhouse in Alibaug in 2022 for ₹19.24 crore, offering a tranquil retreat away from the spotlight. Kohli also owns a palatial bungalow in Gurugram, valued at ₹80 crore, complete with a private gym and sprawling lawns.
Revving Up: Kohli’s Luxe Car Collection
Though he’s pared down his collection recently, Kohli still owns a drool-worthy garage that includes:
Lamborghini Huracan (₹3.22 crore)
Porsche 911 (₹3.51 crore)
Bentley Continental GT (₹4.04 crore)
Bentley Flying Spur (₹3.80 crore)
Audi R8 V10 & R8 LMX
Audi A8L Quattro
He once called many of these cars “impulse buys,” but the vehicles he’s kept reflect a matured sense of taste and functionality.
A Life of Legacy
Virat Kohli’s influence transcends sport. From redefining fitness in Indian cricket to championing ethical investing and brand partnerships, he’s built a blueprint for long-term legacy. Now, as he hangs up his whites, Kohli steps into the next phase of his life—not just as a cricket legend, but as a savvy businessman, family man, and cultural icon.
