Virat Kohli had tears in his eyes and a big smile on his face. After years of pain and close finishes, the man who has been the face of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally tasted glory. And in that moment, he made one thing clear that he is never leaving RCB.
On Tuesday night in Ahmedabad, Kohli stood on the field, soaking in the atmosphere after RCB beat Punjab Kings in a nail-biting IPL 2025 final. The victory meant everything to him, but more importantly, he let the world know that his heart still beats for RCB.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
What did Virat Kohli say after winning the title?
While speaking after the win, Kohli was honest and full of emotion. He said this win was one of the biggest moments of his cricket journey. He shared how much he had given to the team, 18 long years, full of ups and downs, with loyalty never in question.
"This moment is right up there with the best moments in my career. I've given everything that I had for the last 18 years. I've stayed loyal to this team, no matter what," said Kohli to the broadcaster.
He admitted there were times when things got tough, and he wondered about his path. But he always came back, always backed RCB. And now, with the trophy finally in hand, he said it felt right.
More: When will IPL 2026 start? Start date and duration of Indian Premier League season 19
"I've had moments where I thought otherwise, but I stuck to this team. I stood behind them, they stood behind me. And I always dreamt of winning it with them. And this is far more special than winning it with anyone else because my heart is with Bangalore, my soul is with Bangalore," he added.
Kohli then confirmed that he will retire from the IPL as an RCB player, no matter when that day comes, "This is the team I'm going to play for till the last day that I play the IPL."
The RCB batter said he always aims to win major tournaments and be part of big moments in cricket. But despite all his achievements, this particular trophy had always been missing from his cabinet. Finally winning it meant everything to him.
Check: IPL 2025 prize money: Full breakdown for winner, runner-up, man of the match, Orange and Purple Cap
"This one is absolutely right up there because you know, as a sportsman, when you grind for something, and this is a very high intensity, high quality tournament, which is of great value in world cricket today. And I'm someone that wants to win the big tournaments, the big moments, and this one was missing. And tonight, I'm going to sleep like a baby," added the 36-year-old RCB icon.