MS Dhoni is the Roger Federer of cricket, Virat Kohli mirrors Carlos Alcaraz: Sanju Samson

Sanju Samson made a bold comparison of MS Dhoni with Roger Federer and Virat Kohli with Carlos Alcaraz ahead of Wimbledon 2026.

Dhoni, who led India to the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy, is widely associated with calm finishing, sharp tactical brilliance and composure under pressure, qualities often compared to Roger Federer’s 20 Grand Slam singles titles built on precision, control and sustained dominance.

In contrast, Kohli, with 85 international centuries across formats, mirrors Alcaraz’s explosive intensity, relentless energy and aggressive match play that has translated into several Grand Slam titles in recent seasons, including the US Open, French Open, Wimbledon and Australian Open.

“The Roger Federer of cricket? It has to be MS Dhoni. He is very calm and composed in the way he goes about his business. When he performs, it looks effortless but very powerful. Carlos Alcaraz on the other hand is very explosive, similar to when Virat Bhai started. Maybe Virat Kohli can be compared to Alcaraz. He is very aggressive and full of power and explosiveness,” he said of Samson.

ALCARAZ IS NOT PART OF WIMBLEDON

Carlos Alcaraz has established himself as one of the most dominant modern forces at Wimbledon and has been excellent on grass since his breakthrough.

In 2023, he won the Wimbledon title, defeating Novak Djokovic in a five-set final that highlighted his athleticism, resilience and mental strength. He followed that up with a successful defense of his crown in 2024, further cementing his status as a complete all-court player with elite movement, shooting and adaptability on grass.

In 2025, however, he was not enough against Jannik Sinner in a very intense encounter, underscoring the growing rivalry at the top of men’s tennis.

in 2026 Alcaraz will be missed by the grass major due to fitness concerns, a setback that also ruled him out of the French Open, a significant absence for the fans and the tournament.

Jannik Sinner is expected to be the top favorite for the title in his absence, while Alexander Zverev, the fresh Grand Slam champion at Roland Garros, will also be one to watch. Novak Djokovic, meanwhile, remains the top contender as he continues his quest for a 25th Grand Slam singles title.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

22 Jun 2026 19:16 IST