U Mumba captain Sunil Kumar made headlines not for his skills on the kabaddi mat but for a touching tribute to the man who helped shape his career. After the Pro Kabaddi League auctions, Sunil presented a cheque for INR 25 lakhs to his childhood coach, Bhupender Malik, in a heartfelt gesture of gratitude.
Sunil said Bhupender Malik was his childhood guru who introduced him to kabaddi. The coach has trained many players over the past 20 to 25 years without charging any fees, showing a deep commitment to the sport and its athletes.
The moment between player and coach was emotional. Bhupender Malik was initially reluctant to accept the gift, but Sunil insisted it was a gesture of respect for everything his coach had done. Sunil credited his coach not only for teaching him defensive skills but also for helping him become a leader. “Whatever I have achieved in PKL, it’s all because of his training,” he said.
Sunil is the most expensive Indian defender in the PKL 11 Player Auction, and he recognizes how the league has changed players’ lives. He said that earlier kabaddi players had little recognition or money, but now the sport and its players have gained fame and respect.
“I am very happy. I have given respect to my guru,” Sunil said, showing pride in honoring the person who believed in him first. His gesture is a reminder that success is built on remembering those who support you from the start.
