Indian men's hockey team striker Abhishek has revealed his admiration for the legendary Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, drawing inspiration from the football superstar’s style of play to enhance his own game on the field. This surprising cross-sport fandom underscores how excellence and dedication transcend boundaries, motivating athletes regardless of their discipline.
Key Highlights From Abhishek’s Revelation
Abhishek idolizes Cristiano Ronaldo and closely follows his matches and techniques to learn about scoring, positioning, timing, and shooting.
Despite his childhood coach’s liking for Lionel Messi and shaping his early training around the Argentine, Abhishek remains fascinated by Ronaldo’s style and work ethic.
He sees parallels between hockey and football as team sports that rely heavily on running, endurance, positioning, and coordination.
Abhishek had a standout tournament in the Asia Cup 2025, scoring six goals and contributing significantly to India’s 4-1 victory over defending champions Korea.
The striker emphasizes how watching Ronaldo motivates his on-field decisions and positional play, adding a unique dimension to his hockey approach.
Childhood Influences And Sporting Journey
Abhishek’s hockey foundation was nurtured by his boyhood coach Shamsher Dahiya, who preferred Messi’s play style and aspired for Abhishek to emulate the Argentine great. Yet, Abhishek’s personal connection to Ronaldo took root early and grew stronger over time through dedicated video analysis and observation of the star’s on-field discipline.
This blend of Messi’s finesse and Ronaldo’s assertiveness has shaped a versatile and effective hockey player. Abhishek acknowledges the influence of both icons while carving his own identity as a key striker for India.
Recent Triumph On The Asian Stage
The recent Asia Cup held in Rajgir, Bihar, marked a milestone in Abhishek’s career. His six goals powered India to reclaim the championship, adding a fourth Asia Cup title for the nation and securing qualification for the 2026 FIH World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
His standout performance earned him the player-of-the-tournament accolade, a testament to his growing influence and confidence in international hockey. Abhishek considers this success a boost for upcoming events and India's aspiration to return to global prominence.
Inspiring Goals for The Future
Abhishek hopes to revive India’s golden hockey era, citing a 50-year drought in World Cup titles as motivation. He believes the current team has the talent and determination to clinch the coveted trophy by focusing on consistency, improved defense, and clinical finishing inside the circle.
With past achievements including a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics and gold at the Hangzhou Asian Games, Abhishek envisions a future where Indian hockey regularly wins medals on the biggest stages. His personal goal aligns with the team’s wider mission to restore India’s legacy in the sport.
Influence Of Indian Hockey Legends
While football has influenced his game, Abhishek draws inspiration from Indian hockey stalwarts, notably former captain Sardar Singh. Though their playing periods did not overlap, Sardar Singh’s leadership and style motivated Abhishek to pursue hockey passionately, encouraged by observing the sport’s legends.
Balancing Career And Family
Off the field, Abhishek manages a dual career as a senior manager at Punjab National Bank and as an elite hockey player. He credits his coach and family support for overcoming early injuries that threatened to hamper his career. During celebratory moments, family time remains a priority for the athlete who spends much of the year away from home.
Conclusion: A Unique Blend Of Inspiration And Ambition
Abhishek’s admiration for Ronaldo and synthesis of football traits into hockey highlight the cross-pollination of ideas that fuel sporting excellence. His journey reflects dedication, adaptability, and a vision to elevate Indian hockey on world stages, inspired equally by football legends and domestic heroes. As India prepares for the FIH World Cup, Abhishek stands ready to lead forward as a goal-scoring force and a symbol of pan-sport inspiration.
Sources: NDTV Sports, PTI Bhasha, Economic Times Sports, News Drum
