New Delhi, January 19, 2025 – The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025 came to an electrifying conclusion at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, as India emerged champions in both the men’s and women’s categories. With thrilling matches and exceptional performances, this tournament showcased India’s dominance in Kho Kho on the global stage.
Men’s Tournament Results
Group Stage:
- India vs Nepal: India won 42-37
- India vs Brazil: India triumphed 64-34
- India vs Peru: India secured victory 70-38
- India vs Bhutan: India dominated 71-34
Quarterfinal:
- India vs Sri Lanka: India won convincingly 100-40
Semifinal:
- India vs South Africa: India outplayed South Africa 60-42
Final:
- India vs Nepal: In a gripping encounter, India edged out Nepal with a final score of 54-36.
The Indian men’s team, led by Pratik Waikar, displayed unparalleled teamwork and agility, with standout performances by Ramji Kashyap and Aditya Ganpule in critical moments. The team celebrated their victory by lifting the first-ever World Cup trophy, marking a historic moment for Indian Kho Kho.
Women’s Tournament Results
Group Stage:
- India vs South Korea: India won 175-18
- India vs Iran: India triumphed 100-16
- India vs Malaysia: India secured victory 100-20
Quarterfinal:
- India vs Bangladesh: India dominated with a score of 109-16
Semifinal:
- India vs South Africa: India advanced with a commanding win 66-16
Final:
- India vs Nepal: The Indian women’s team clinched the championship with a resounding win of 78-40.
Led by captain Suman Bala, the team’s exceptional strategies and coordinated gameplay shone throughout the tournament. Star players Niharika Devi and Ananya Gupta were instrumental in securing the victory.
Tournament Highlights
- Venue: Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi
- Dates: January 13–19, 2025
- Participating Teams:
- Men’s Teams: India, Nepal, Peru, Brazil, Bhutan, South Africa, Ghana, Argentina, Netherlands, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, South Korea, USA, Poland, England, Germany, Malaysia, Australia, Kenya
- Women’s Teams: India, South Korea, Iran, Malaysia, England, Australia, Kenya, Uganda, Netherlands, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Germany, Bangladesh, South Africa, New Zealand, Poland, Peru, Indonesia
- Special Mention:
- India’s men’s and women’s teams remained unbeaten throughout the tournament.
- The Bangladesh men’s team and Sri Lanka women’s team showcased remarkable performances, earning runner-up positions.
Statements from the Captains
- Pratik Waikar (Men’s Team):
“This is a dream come true for every Indian Kho Kho player. Winning the World Cup on home soil is an honor, and I dedicate this victory to our fans and our relentless training team.” - Suman Bala (Women’s Team):
“We worked as one unit, and this win is the result of our hard work and strategy. The support from the crowd inspired us to give our best!”
The Kho Kho World Cup 2025 will be remembered as a monumental event that showcased India’s supremacy in this traditional sport. Both teams not only brought home the trophies but also inspired a generation of players to pursue Kho Kho with passion and dedication.
India stands tall as the first-ever dual champions of the Kho Kho World Cup, making this event a proud milestone in the country’s sporting history.