Young Kho Kho Star Madan Gears Up for World Cup After Overcoming Personal Tragedy

New Delhi - India is set to host the Kho Kho World Cup in January 2025, and young athlete Madan from New Delhi is eagerly preparing to represent his country. Having made his international debut in March 2023, Madan believes this global tournament will elevate the profile of Kho Kho and attract more fans.

“The preparations are going well. I focus on my fitness and keep my body ready for the tournament. Every Sunday, I go for physiotherapy to prevent injuries. The Ultimate Kho Kho League has already raised awareness about the sport, and I believe the World Cup will bring even more attention,” Madan stated.

Currently a B.A. (Programming) student, Madan credits his elder brother for introducing him to Kho Kho and coaching him in the early stages of his career. “My brother played the sport, which inspired me to take it up. He initially trained me before I moved to professional coaching, eventually leading me to play at various levels,” he explained.

Tragically, Madan lost his father during the lockdown due to kidney failure. However, his mother’s unwavering support has motivated him to continue pursuing his passion for Kho Kho. “My mother encourages me a lot and allows me to focus on my sport,” he shared.

Madan also discussed the challenges faced by players in the domestic circuit as they strive to wear the Indian jersey. “I play for Chhatrasal Stadium in Delhi under coach Pawan. Players start at the district level, go through a selection process, and eventually get picked for state camps. I made my Indian debut in March 2023,” he said.

He praised the impact of the Ultimate Kho Kho League (UKKL) on the sport, noting that its franchise-based model creates more opportunities for players. “UKKL offers players both visibility and financial support, serving as a platform for them to reach the highest level,” he added.

Madan’s rigorous fitness regime includes running, chin-ups, dips, and sprints of 400m and 800m. He is also a fan of the KKFI sports science app, which provides valuable feedback on players’ fitness levels. “It’s an excellent tool that helps players identify their weaknesses and focus on improvement,” he concluded.

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