Yuvraj Singh opens up on his retirement decision from international cricket
Former World Cup-winning all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has recently opened up about the real reasons behind his decision to walk away from the game that defined his life. The iconic Indian cricketer officially retired from all forms of professional cricket in June 2019, shortly after being left out of India’s squad for the ODI World Cup held that year. While his omission marked a turning point, Yuvraj revealed that the decision to retire was influenced by deeper, more personal factors. Speaking candidly during a podcast conversation with former Indian tennis star Sania Mirza, the Chandigarh-born cricketer admitted that he no longer felt the respect and backing he believed were essential to continue competing at the highest level.
What was the real reason behind Yuvraj Singh's decision to retire from international cricket?
After giving years of dedication, battling injuries, and overcoming major personal challenges, Yuvraj felt emotionally drained and unsupported. He emphasized that the lack of trust and encouragement played a significant role in his decision to step aside. Additionally, Yuvraj reflected on his decorated career and acknowledged that he had already achieved everything he set out to accomplish in the sport. With multiple World Cup triumphs, match-winning performances, and unforgettable moments to his name, he felt there was nothing left to prove to critics or selectors. Retirement, he explained, was ultimately a decision rooted in self-respect, closure, and acceptance rather than disappointment alone.
"I was not enjoying my game. I had a feeling that why am I playing cricket when I'm not enjoying it? I was not feeling supported. I was not feeling respected. And I felt, why do I need to do this when I don't have this? Why am I lingering on to something that I'm not enjoying? Why do I need to play? To prove what? I can't do more than this, mentally or physically, and it was hurting me. And the day I stopped, I was myself again," stated former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh.
Yuvraj Singh also reflected on a defining phase from his early teenage years, recalling how his talent was once doubted by cricketer-turned-commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu. According to Yuvraj, Sidhu had effectively written him off at a time when he was still developing as a young cricketer and finding his footing in the competitive circuit. Those remarks, however, did not go unnoticed within his family. Yuvraj revealed that his father, Yograj Singh, took Sidhu’s comments very personally, viewing them as a slight not just against his son’s ability but also against his potential future in the game.
The criticism became a source of emotional intensity within the household and further fueled Yograj’s already fierce determination to see Yuvraj succeed at the highest level. For Yuvraj, that period served as an early lesson in handling doubt, external judgment, and pressure. Instead of breaking his confidence, the skepticism ultimately strengthened his resolve and motivated him to prove his critics wrong through performances on the field.
"Now, when I look back at it, I just think he didn't have the time to have a proper look at me. He was just like being nice to my dad. Then obviously, he was playing for India at that time, so he probably would have said that. I was 13-14 at that time, just figuring out a sport. I don't take it personally, but my father took it personally," Yuvraj added.
Yuvraj Singh is widely regarded as one of the finest and most impactful cricketers India has ever produced. Over the course of a distinguished international career, he accumulated an impressive 11,778 runs and claimed 148 wickets across all formats at the highest level, underlining his value as a genuine match-winning all-rounder. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him an indispensable asset to the Indian team for many years. Beyond his primary skills, Yuvraj was also an exceptional fielder, known for his athleticism, sharp reflexes, and powerful throwing arm. He was involved in numerous memorable catches and breathtaking moments of ground fielding that often turned matches in India’s favor.
While his astonishing feat of smashing six consecutive sixes off Stuart Broad during the 2007 T20 World Cup remains etched in cricketing folklore, Yuvraj’s legacy extends far beyond that iconic moment. Fans continue to revere the 44-year-old for his heroic performances during the 2011 ODI World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in India’s title-winning campaign. Battling serious health issues at the time, Yuvraj delivered crucial runs, vital wickets, and unwavering determination, cementing his status as a true legend of Indian cricket.
