"I Didn't Want To Play Anymore": Rohit Sharma's Fresh Retirement Revelation
In a recent candid revelation, Indian cricketing legend Rohit Sharma has opened up about the emotional aftermath of the 2023 World Cup final loss, admitting that he contemplated retirement after the defeat. Speaking at a recent event, Sharma described the period following the loss to Australia as one of the toughest in his career.
Sharma, who had taken over as captain in 2022, carried the hopes of a nation aiming for World Cup glory on home soil. India entered the 2023 World Cup final undefeated, with Sharma leading the charge throughout the tournament. His aggressive batting at the top of the order saw him amass 597 runs in 11 matches, averaging 54.27 with a striking strike rate of 125.94. However, the final in Ahmedabad proved to be a heartbreaking experience as Australia defeated India.
Sharma revealed that the loss left him emotionally drained. The burden of expectation and the crushing disappointment led him to question his future in the sport. "At one point, I honestly felt like I didn't want to play this sport anymore," he confessed, highlighting the mental exhaustion that followed the defeat.
Despite the intense disappointment, Sharma found a way back, rediscovering his love for the game. This resurgence saw him lead India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup, after which he retired from the T20I format. Having already retired from Tests, and been removed from ODI captaincy earlier in the year, Sharma is currently focused on the 50-over format. He is aiming to make one final attempt at the 2027 World Cup.
Earlier in January 2025, Sharma addressed rumors about retiring from the Sydney Test against Australia, clarifying that he had stood down due to poor form, reassuring fans of his commitment to the game.
Rohit Sharma's journey from despair to redemption highlights the emotional challenges faced by athletes at the highest level and the resilience required to overcome them. His openness provides a glimpse into the human side of a champion who refused to let heartbreak define his legacy.
