Star Indian cricketer, Virat Kohli, secured the Pubity Athlete of the Year award, defeating Argentine football icon Lionel Messi with a resounding 78-22 vote count. Pubity Sport, an online community with over 35 million followers on Instagram, organized the poll. Kohli’s stellar 2023 performance, including 8 tons and 10 half-centuries, earned him the prestigious title. The poll, featuring sports legends like Djokovic and Ronaldo, culminated in a Kohli-Messi face-off, where the cricketer dominated with 78% votes. The achievement adds to Kohli’s exceptional cricketing year, where he became the first to score 50 ODI centuries and topped the ODI World Cup run charts with 765 runs.

Kohli’s Remarkable 2023

Virat Kohli’s exceptional year included breaking records, scoring 2048 runs across formats, and being the highest run-scorer in the ODI World Cup. His phenomenal achievement of 50 ODI centuries and leading in World Cup runs made him the people’s choice for the Pubity Athlete of the Year award.

Messi’s Year in Review

In contrast, Lionel Messi, despite winning the Ballon d’Or for his 2022 World Cup exploits, had a relatively quiet 2023. After moving to Inter Miami, he scored 10 goals but couldn’t guide his team to the playoffs in the Major Soccer League.

Public’s Verdict

Virat Kohli’s overwhelming victory with 78% of the votes from 500,000 people reflects his immense popularity and outstanding contributions to cricket. The award, presented by Pubity, involves public voting, making it a significant recognition and testament to Kohli’s star status in sports.

In the competitive world of sports awards, the Pubity Athlete of the Year stands out for its inclusivity, recognizing achievements across various sports and engaging fans in the selection process. Kohli’s triumph adds another feather to his illustrious career, emphasizing his global appeal.

Overall, Virat Kohli’s remarkable year and the love from his fans secured him the Athlete of the Year award, highlighting his status as a sports icon.