Cricket South Africa vs India 2023

'Sirf naam kaafi hai King ka'- Fans react as Virat Kohli gets ranked as 3rd most popular sportstar of 2023

Virat Kohli's 3rd place in Hooper HQ's "Most Popular Sports Stars of 2023" ranking is a testament to his enduring legacy. His passion, talent, and connection with fans across the globe have solidified his place among the world's most beloved athletes.

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Sarah Andrew
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Kohli has had a magnificent year with the bat

Having had a brilliant year with the bat, Kohli was also quite popular among netizens

Virat Kohli, the name can be a synonym for a batting genius and passionate cricket, has once again cemented his place among the world's most beloved sports icons. According to Hooper HQ's annual ranking, Kohli stands tall as the 3rd most popular sports star of 2023, a testament to his enduring legacy and unwavering fan base.

This speaks volumes about Virat Kohli's unwavering popularity even after having faced a slight dip in his on-field performance before this year. However, Kohli was back to his best performance this year as he had put up some sensational performances and was consistent throughout. In a year brimming with sporting triumphs and captivating storylines, Kohli managed to captivate fans and hold his own against an array of global superstars.

His popularity hinges on a potent mix of factors. There's the undeniable cricketing prowess, etched with numerous records and match-winning knocks. Kohli's hunger for runs and his dedication to the game is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a source of pride for cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond the boundaries of the cricket pitch, Kohli is a fashion icon, a brand ambassador, and a youth idol. His charismatic personality and vocal stance on social issues resonate with millions of his fans, especially the younger generation. He actively engages on social media, fostering a sense of connection and relatability that fuels his popularity.

Factors considered

Hooper HQ's ranking considers a plethora of metrics, including online searches, social media engagement, brand endorsement deals, and media presence. Kohli's dominance across these platforms is undeniable. He boasts over 265 million Instagram followers, making him one of the most followed athletes on the platform. His brand endorsements cover a wide spectrum, from apparel giants to tech companies, further solidifying his commercial appeal.

However, Kohli's most valuable asset remains his connection with the Indian populace. Cricket is more than just a sport in India; it's a cultural phenomenon, and Kohli serves as its modern-day embodiment. His triumphs ignite national celebrations, his defeats evoke empathy, and his every move is scrutinized with unwavering passion.

Here's how 'X-verse' reacted to the development:

Virat Kohli