Virat Kohli vs MS Dhoni: Who is Wealthier? A Deep Dive into Their Net Worths
The cricketing world has been blessed with several iconic players, but few stand as tall as Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. These two legends have not only shaped the fortunes of Indian cricket but have also built staggering personal fortunes along the way. While both are supremely successful, their contrasting personas often prompt the question: Who is richer—Virat Kohli or MS Dhoni?
Let’s break down their individual journeys, business ventures, brand endorsements, and investments to answer this hotly debated question.
MS Dhoni: The Captain Cool’s Financial Empire
MS Dhoni, one of the most successful captains in cricket history, is widely regarded as one of the calmest and most strategic minds in the game. With his IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings and his commercial ventures, Dhoni has built an empire that stretches far beyond cricket.
Endorsements and Businesses
MS Dhoni’s business acumen is impressive. From endorsing over 20 brands at the peak of his career—such as Pepsi, Reebok, and TVS—Dhoni has earned millions just from advertisements. His association with the IPL has been equally lucrative, with Dhoni reportedly earning INR 12 crore per season from Chennai Super Kings until 2021, later increasing to INR 15 crore.
In addition to his earnings from cricket and endorsements, Dhoni has invested smartly in various ventures. He co-owns Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League and has stakes in several other businesses, including Seven (his own lifestyle brand), SportsFit (a gym franchise), and organic farming ventures. These have boosted his financial portfolio.
Real Estate and Luxury
Dhoni’s love for bikes and cars is legendary, but he has also invested significantly in real estate. His luxurious farmhouse in Ranchi, his hometown, is spread over 7 acres, featuring a massive garden, a private cricket pitch, and ultra-modern interiors.
Net Worth
As of 2023, MS Dhoni’s net worth is estimated to be around $125 million (INR 1,035 crore). While his on-field income has reduced post-retirement, his savvy investments and continued endorsements maintain a steady flow of wealth.
Virat Kohli: The Modern Cricket Icon’s Financial Dominance
Virat Kohli, often referred to as the Run Machine, has taken the cricketing world by storm with his consistent performances. Known for his aggressive style and sharp business sense, Kohli has positioned himself not just as a cricketing giant, but also as a global brand ambassador.
Endorsements and Businesses
In terms of brand endorsements, Virat Kohli is unparalleled. From global brands like Puma, Audi, and Tissot to local Indian giants like MRF, Vivo, and Manyavar, Kohli earns a staggering amount from his endorsements. It is reported that he charges over INR 8-10 crore per endorsement annually. His deal with Puma alone is worth INR 100 crore over several years.
Kohli’s business ventures are equally impressive. His stake in FC Goa (an ISL football club), his One8 brand in collaboration with Puma, and his Chisel gym chain have significantly contributed to his growing wealth. In 2022, Kohli was one of the few cricketers to be listed on Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes in the world, an indicator of his financial clout.
IPL and Salary
Kohli has remained loyal to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) throughout his IPL career, and in return, the franchise has rewarded him handsomely. Kohli earns a whopping INR 15 crore per season from the IPL, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. His combination of IPL earnings, endorsements, and businesses makes him a financial powerhouse.
Luxury Lifestyle and Real Estate
Kohli’s real estate portfolio is equally vast, with luxurious homes in Mumbai, Gurugram, and various other cities. His Mumbai apartment is said to be worth INR 34 crore. Additionally, he and his wife, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, are known for their opulent lifestyle, including a collection of high-end cars like Audi and Bentley.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Virat Kohli’s net worth is estimated to be around $127 million (INR 1,045 crore), edging just ahead of MS Dhoni in terms of overall wealth.
The Verdict: Kohli vs Dhoni—Who is Richer?
Based purely on their estimated net worth, Virat Kohli currently stands marginally ahead of MS Dhoni, with a difference of around INR 10 crore. Kohli’s active playing career, combined with his massive endorsement portfolio, places him at the top. However, it’s important to note that Dhoni’s wealth is built on more long-term investments and businesses that continue to grow post-retirement.
Controversy Around Wealth Comparison
While the numbers point to Kohli being wealthier today, Dhoni’s fans often argue that his wealth is more stable, diversified, and less dependent on endorsements, unlike Kohli, whose earnings are still heavily tied to his cricketing career. Additionally, the two players have always been viewed differently—Dhoni as a more grounded, understated figure, and Kohli as a more flamboyant, marketable personality. This cultural contrast further fuels the debate, as Dhoni’s investments are largely private, while Kohli’s wealth is more publicly visible.
In the end, the question of who is richer may be less significant than the fact that both Kohli and Dhoni represent two different eras and approaches to cricket and business. While Virat Kohli is the quintessential modern cricketer-entrepreneur, MS Dhoni exemplifies long-term strategy and quiet financial strength. Either way, both have set benchmarks not just in cricket but also in how athletes can transition into successful businessmen.
Final Thoughts
The debate over who is richer—Virat Kohli or MS Dhoni—will likely continue to rage among fans, as the gap between their net worths remains razor-thin. Ultimately, both these legends have shown that success on the cricket field can translate into astronomical financial success, but with vastly different styles of wealth accumulation. What’s certain, however, is that both will continue to grow their empires for years to come, making this debate ever more intriguing.
