Virat Kohli: Virat Kohli is one of the most iconic cricketers of the modern era. Renowned not only for his aggressive playing style but also for his leadership, Kohli has emerged as one of the wealthiest athletes globally. In 2019, Forbes published its annual list of the highest-paid athletes, and Virat Kohli made a significant impact by securing a spot among the top 100.
In this article, we will explore Virat Kohli’s net worth in 2019, his sources of income, endorsements, business ventures, and how he continues to evolve as an athlete and entrepreneur.
Who is Virat Kohli?
Virat Kohli, born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India, is widely regarded as one of the best batsmen in the world. He made his debut in international cricket in 2008 and quickly established himself as a key player for the Indian team. Kohli’s rise to fame can be attributed to his impeccable batting skills, sharp cricketing intelligence, and incredible consistency across formats. As of 2019, he had already achieved numerous records, including being the fastest player to score 8,000, 9,000, and 10,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Aside from his cricketing prowess, Kohli’s brand value off the field has grown exponentially over the years. His presence on social media, involvement in various business ventures, and endorsement deals have contributed to his financial success.
Virat Kohli’s Net Worth in 2019 According to Forbes
Forbes’ 2019 list of the highest-paid athletes placed Virat Kohli in the 100th position. According to the publication, his net worth was estimated to be $25 million in 2019. This amount is a combination of his earnings from playing cricket, endorsement deals, and business interests.
To break it down further, Kohli’s earnings in 2019 were split across various sectors. Here’s a breakdown of his total earnings in 2019:
| Source | Earnings (in million $) |
|---|---|
| Cricket Salary | 4.8 |
| Endorsements | 18.7 |
| Business Ventures | 1.5 |
| Total Net Worth | 25.0 |
1. Cricket Salary
Virat Kohli’s cricket salary is largely derived from his contracts with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He is one of the highest-paid athletes in India due to his role as the captain of the national team and his contract with BCCI. Additionally, Kohli earns from playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
In 2019, Kohli was receiving around $4.8 million from his cricketing career, which includes his base salary from the Indian cricket team and his IPL contract.
2. Endorsements
Endorsements are where Virat Kohli earns the majority of his wealth. His appeal as an athlete and role model makes him an attractive brand ambassador for companies. Kohli has been associated with numerous global brands, such as Puma, Audi, MRF, Pepsi, and many others.
In 2019, Kohli’s earnings from endorsements were a staggering $18.7 million. He is one of the highest-earning athletes from endorsements, and his appeal is not only restricted to India but also stretches globally. Kohli’s social media following, including millions of fans on Instagram, further boosts his ability to engage with brands.
| Endorsement Brand | Product/Service |
|---|---|
| Puma | Sportswear |
| Audi | Luxury Cars |
| MRF | Cricket Equipment |
| Pepsi | Soft Drinks |
| Many Others | Fashion, Fitness, Health |
3. Business Ventures
In addition to his career in cricket and endorsements, Virat Kohli has been actively involved in business ventures. He has invested in multiple startups and owns a range of businesses, including fitness ventures and fashion brands. In 2019, Kohli launched his fitness brand, ‘One8’, which focuses on activewear. He also co-owns a chain of gyms called ‘Chisel’, catering to fitness enthusiasts.
His business ventures, though smaller in comparison to his endorsement deals, still contributed approximately $1.5 million to his overall net worth in 2019.
4. Personal Investments
Kohli’s personal investments are also a significant part of his financial portfolio. His investments are spread across multiple sectors, including tech startups and luxury goods. He has been associated with brands like Blue Tribe, a plant-based food company. This reflects his personal commitment to a healthy lifestyle, which has translated into successful business partnerships.
Impact of Virat Kohli’s Brand
Virat Kohli’s brand value is one of the most powerful in India and globally. His endorsements and popularity have led to him being one of the top 10 highest-paid athletes in India and even globally.
Social Media Influence
Virat Kohli’s reach on social media platforms, particularly Instagram, has played a massive role in expanding his marketability. In 2019, Kohli had one of the most-followed Instagram accounts globally. His social media following helped him connect with fans and market brands more effectively. His active engagement with followers makes him a highly effective influencer, thus driving up his endorsement value.
Influence Beyond Cricket
Kohli’s influence extends beyond cricket. He has become a fashion icon and a health and fitness enthusiast. His active lifestyle, rigorous fitness regime, and interest in wellness have helped him position himself as an authority in this space, adding to his appeal as an influencer for global brands.
Virat Kohli’s Legacy in the World of Sports
By 2019, Virat Kohli had not only amassed a substantial fortune but also built an enduring legacy in the world of cricket. His leadership on the field, combined with his athleticism and charisma off the field, made him a multifaceted global personality.
Leadership on the Field
Under Kohli’s leadership, India achieved significant milestones. The team reached new heights in international cricket, and Kohli’s contributions in both limited-overs and Test cricket were paramount. His aggressive captaincy and performances helped India become one of the strongest teams globally during his tenure as captain.
Off-Field Contributions
Aside from his achievements in cricket, Kohli’s philanthropic efforts have also drawn attention. He has been involved in various charity activities, especially through the Virat Kohli Foundation, which supports underprivileged children and promotes sports in India.
Virat Kohli’s net worth in 2019, as reported by Forbes, was a testament to his immense popularity and successful business acumen. His earnings were primarily driven by his cricket salary, lucrative endorsement deals, and a growing portfolio of business investments. With a combination of sporting excellence and entrepreneurial spirit, Kohli had not only become a cricketing legend but also a global icon in 2019.
As of today, Kohli continues to be a key figure in the world of sports and business, and his legacy seems poised to grow even further in the years to come.
